Wigan Athletic boss Roberto Martinez can see similarities with their Carling Cup opponents Preston North End.
Preston have collected just three points to lie second bottom of the Championship after seven games.
Martinez said: "Darren Ferguson is working with a new project and players and that is going to take time.
"I have seen them play three times and they are not far away from getting results.
"It is just a matter of time before they get some positive results and into a good groove, but hopefully after tomorrow.
"In a cup competition it is going to be completely different. They are going to come here with great desire and nothing to lose.
"It is going to be a welcome distraction from the league and that could make them very dangerous."
