For any team looking to stave off the threat of relegation, losing the club’s predominant centre-back, and one that has performed admirably over the season, is a bitter pill to swallow. However, that is exactly what has happened to Wigan Athletic following the news that Ivan Ramis will be forced to sit out the remainder of the campaign.
The Latics defender was stretchered off during the recent 1-1 draw with Fulham following a collision with Dimitar Berbatov, rupturing his cruciate ligament in the process. While manager Roberto Martinez would’ve been keen to see his initial fears allayed, it’s the worst possible news for a team currently languishing at the wrong end of the table.
Having conceded 40 goals in the Premiership this season, the need for defensive stability is a necessity. With the Spaniard’s absence until the end of the season, it will understandably come as a blow to the Wigan boss.
Having also netted twice this year, the loss of Ramis will also be a major blow to the Latics attacking threat. Whether it now means Martinez will invest in a new centre-back before the close of the transfer window, it remains to be seen, but without the 28-year-old in the heart of the backline it wouldn’t be a shock to see the manager invest before February, especially with the defender now out for the rest of the season.