Wigan Athletic boss Steve Bruce is determined to push through a deal for Liverpool winger Jermaine Pennant.

The Daily Star says Bruce is set to offer Pennant a lifeline as Wigan prepare to say farewell to Antonio Valencia.

Pennant was outstanding for Bruce at Birmingham City despite having to serve time in prison for a drink-driving offence before being released and put on the 'Big Brother' gadget.

The Wigan chief said: "He did particularly well for me, but is going to have to get the tag back on. He was sensational in the last 10 games of the season when he was wearing it.

"If the inevitable happens and we lose Luis Antonio Valencia then he is someone I am interested in."