Wigan Athletic boss Ryan Lowe says he is ready to alter his team’s identity if that’s what it takes to halt their worrying run of form in League One.
The Latics are without a win in 6 matches in all competitions and were booed off after a fourth consecutive home defeat, this time to Wycombe Wanderers at the Brick Community Stadium.
Lowe Concedes ‘Crap Week’ As Pressure Mounts
A 1-0 loss to Wycombe, following a midweek defeat to Wolves Under-21s in the EFL Trophy, capped what Lowe described as a “crap week” for his side. The Wigan manager expressed frustration with his team’s inconsistency but said he remains determined to turn things around, even if it means abandoning the attacking style he was hired to deliver.
“It’s another loss, another crap week, and I’m disappointed,” Lowe said. “If we need to change the identity and play horrible football to get results, then we’ll do that. W
“hether we’re coming away from that exciting style, I don’t know. We might need to adapt or change. If I need to go five at the back, four in midfield and one up front and be hard to beat, then we will.”
Honest Assessment After Wycombe Defeat
Saturday’s defeat was decided by a first-half strike from Wycombe forward Sam Bell, who finished off a counter-attack after Paul Mullin lost possession in midfield. Wigan improved after a tactical reshuffle but could not find a breakthrough, despite late chances for Dara Costelloe.
Lowe did not hide his anger at the manner of the goal, describing it as unacceptable.
“I am raging with their goal,” he said. “It’s not something we should be doing, conceding from a counter-attack. I have read them the riot act. We had a good go in the last 25 minutes when we changed shape, but some aren’t doing enough.
“If anyone thinks we’re going to get to the play-offs and get promoted, then think twice because it isn’t going to happen. What we do have is a plan, and we’re going to build together.”
The manager also warned his squad that places are at risk, insisting that attitude and work rate must improve.
“I could change as many as I want for next week,” he said. “I’m the head coach, and I take the flak, but it’s not nice being booed off. They’re paying their hard-earned money to come. Everyone’s getting an opportunity to show what they can do.
“Some are doing okay, some aren’t doing enough. You need 11, 12, 13, 14 players giving the levels that are expected, and we’re not doing that just yet.”
Wigan host Port Vale next, a side unbeaten in 5 as they look to end their winless streak and regain confidence in front of their supporters.
Writer’s View
Ryan Lowe’s admission marks a clear shift in tone. The Wigan boss built his reputation on expansive, front-foot football, but a string of poor results has left him searching for a formula that delivers points rather than plaudits.
His willingness to adapt tactically shows pragmatism, yet with morale dipping and home frustration growing, the response against Port Vale feels critical. Wigan’s squad has quality, but belief and resilience must return quickly if they are to avoid being drawn into a deeper struggle.
