Ball's hopes of a return to the Premier League may be realised by Wigan

Michael Ball is on the brink of resurrecting his career with Wigan, according to boss Roberto Martinez.

Ball, currently a free agent, has spent the last few weeks training with the Latics in a bid to regain his fitness after surgery to a tendon in his knee.

Martinez said: "He's had a lot of problems with his injury, but he is recovering, trying to get match fitness, and now he is looking sharp.

"He's got great experience and it's great to have him around."

After two-and-a-half years with Manchester City, the 30-year-old left-back was released in July upon the expiry of his contract.

606: DEBATE Discuss Wigan football issues on 606

Ball has since found refuge at Wigan, and this week played in a behind-closed-doors friendly in which he and Angola international defender Francisco Zuela were assessed.

He may be offered a contract if the club are unable to hold onto Maynor Figueroa in next month's transfer window - but Martinez will not be pursuing Zuela, who is currently with Russian side FC Kuban.

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version