Stojkovic is an experienced Serbia international

Wigan have completed the season-long loan signing of Serbia goalkeeper Vladimir Stojkovic from Sporting Lisbon after he received his work permit.

The 26-year-old joined Sporting in 2007 and spent part of last season on loan at Spanish side Getafe.

He has won 29 caps for Serbia and arrives at Wigan just as second-string keeper Richard Kingson leaves to play in the Africa Cup of Nations.

"To get this chance is a fantastic opportunity for me," said Stojkovic.

Kingson, who acts as first-choice Chris Kirkland's back-up, is Ghana's first-choice keeper.

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Stojkovic and Kingson could come face to face at next summer's World Cup in South Africa, as Serbia and Ghana have been drawn in the same group, along with Germany and Australia.

The Serb goes straight into the squad to face Aston Villa on Saturday and manager Roberto Martinez is pleased to have brought in more cover for Kirkland.

"Vladimir is a highly experienced keeper who is the number-one choice in his home country," said Martinez.

"That shows you the calibre of professional we are signing, as a player but also in terms of his character and determination to succeed.

"He will add tremendous competition for places in the goalkeeping department, something which we need everywhere on the pitch."

Stojkovic added: "It is going to be very tough because I know the quality of the goalkeepers already here but every professional trains to play first-team football.

"I am looking forward to the challenge of getting in the team and fighting for a place."

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