Wigan Athletic boss Roberto Martinez is delighted to be kicking off the season at home against Norwich City.
Martinez has also rallied the home fans to play their part on August 13 with season ticket sales up 50 per cent on last season. The Canaries' travelling support will take up their full allocation for the club's Premier League return to guarantee a raucous atmosphere.
"The fans need to play their part and that is why it is exciting to play the first game at home," said Martinez. "We have a strong core of fans who are passionate about the club and it's important everything we do here is for the fans. Every season the competition gets tougher. Every team is competitive at this level and we need to be ready for another huge challenge.
"The evidence is there after six seasons and especially the experience of last season with two teams relegated on the highest total of points for eight seasons. With Norwich and QPR getting promoted automatically and Swansea through the play-offs, they are going to have great confidence and fight to stay in there."
