Wigan Athletic boss Roberto Martinez is keeping Chris Kirkland out of the line of fire.
Martinez has had a heart-to-heart with the former England keeper since leaving him out and only plans to use him when he is physically right.
He insisted he left out Kirkland - who has been hindered by a back injury and other problems - because of his fitness, not because of 10 goals he leaked in their first two games.
Martinez said: "I told Chris he has earned respect in football and in life.
"But it is important we help him to be a bit more selfish and be 100 per cent before he plays."
