New Wigan Athletic captain Mario Melchiot has explained why he chose the JJB ahead of Roma and Lazio.

He said: "It is always special to be a team's captain. Every player who has the opportunity to walk his team out knows this is a great honour but the main thing for me was that I really wanted to come back to England.

"When Wigan came in, it was a great opportunity. They were the first club that approached me and I told my agent I wanted to sign. I was playing the way I know I can last season while in France and because of this I feel good and confident.

"I like the way that people in England love and live for their football. The manager has certainly impressed me and we have a group of players who can achieve something special this season.

"I have come to a club that has brought in some new players and they speak for themselves. I would say the players now want to change things and build something instead of trying simply to stay in the league."