Bruce calls for final push

Wigan Athletic manager Steve Bruce has urged his side to secure their Premier League safety before the final day of the season.

The Latics are all but safe in the top-flight for another season after an unbeaten four-match run has seen them move five points clear of the drop zone with two games remaining.

But speaking ahead of Saturday's clash with Aston Villa, Bruce is keen to avoid a repeat of last season when the Latics' battle to avoid relegation went right to the final day.

"If it goes down to the final game then we've got to be prepared for that," he said.

"We don't want it to, that's for sure, but if needs be, we might have to do it.

"We'll have to prepare in the right way next week, but it'll be nice to put it to bed this weekend.

"We had an opportunity last weekend and didn't take it, but here we are again.

"We've edged and crept towards it progressively over the last few months and let's hope on Saturday that we can get that point - if a point will be enough."

Meanwhile, Bruce has revealed he is close to agreeing a deal to sign Honduras international midfielder Hendry Thomas.