We profile the five players our in-house social media team have selected to make up the iconic Wigan Athletic side from the 2005/06 season.
Wigan Athletic (2005/06)
The papers suggested Wigan would “need a miracle” if they were to survive in their inaugural Premier League season. Paul Jewell’s side defied expectations in style, securing an excellent top-10 finish.
To cap off a tremendous campaign, the Latics also reached the final of the League Cup, the club’s first ever appearance in a major cup final.
Mike Politt (GK)
Signed initially as back-up to John Filan, Mike Politt forced his way into Paul Jewell’s reckoning, helped Wigan climb the Premier League table and even saved a penalty from Jose Antonio Reyes in the League Cup semi-final.
Leighton Baines (DEF)
Signing his first professional contract at Wigan, Leighton Baines was a pivotal member of the Latics’ promotion success in 2004/05. Even then, he was still worried about losing his place in Paul Jewell’s side.
His durability, technique and exceptional crossing ability ensured he made a seamless transition into the Premier League.
Pascal Chimbonda (DEF)
A £500k signing from Bastia, Pascal Chimbonda was a star of the Latics’ first ever Premier League campaign.
Featuring in all but one game that term, his impressive form earned him a spot in the PFA Team of the Year and a spot in France’s World Cup squad.
Jimmy Bullard (MID)
The sublime free-kick against Newcastle at St James’ Park, the acrobatic volley against Aston Villa and who can forget that hilariously timid stare at Everton’s Duncan Ferguson.
As Wigan announced themselves on the Premier League stage, Jimmy Bullard was at the forefront of their success with his energetic displays from central midfield.
Jason Roberts (ST)
Scorer of Wigan’s first Premier League goal and scorer of the iconic last-minute goal at Highbury that sent Wigan through to the League Cup final.
On the back of a stellar Championship campaign in which he scored 21 goals, Roberts carried his goalscoring touch into the Premier League and cemented his place in the hearts of the Wigan faithful.
