Wigan boss Roberto Martinez is prepared for the League opener against promoted Blackpool as "a big challenge". The Seasiders clinched a return to the top flight for the first time since 1971 with a thrilling 3-2 victory over Cardiff in the play-off final at Wembley last month.

Martinez told the Wigan Observer: "It's a tough start. Blackpool will be full of fire for their first game in the Premier League and it's going to be a big challenge for us - but one we will relish.

"It'll be a sell-out crowd and probably have the feel of a cup tie, so it will be our job to rise to that challenge and come away with the right result."