Wigan Athletic manager Steve Bruce is hopeful his side can secure their survival at Aston Villa on Saturday. Last season, the Latics stayed up at Sheffield United's expense after pulling off a nerve-wracking 2-1 win away to the Blades.

Should their relegation fight again go down to the wire this term, they may need to avoid defeat in their final match against title-chasing Manchester United at home.

However, the Latics are in a much stronger position than last year and could have secured their top-flight status for another season with victory at home to Reading last week.