Manchester United teenager will be key as Wigan face tough trip to Russia

Nick Powell

Rubin Kazan vs Wigan Athletic
Date: Thursday, November 7, 2013

Venue: Central’nyj Stadion

Wigan continue their Europa League adventure as they face Russians Rubin Kazan for the second time in Group D, with ambitions of making it into the knockout stages.

The Latics have five points from their first three games in the competition and a win on Thursday will put their fate firmly in their hands going into the final two games against Zulte-Waregem and Maribor.

Rubin vs Wigan

Team News:

Rubin Kazan

The Russians will be missing star striker Salomon Rondon who is currently ruled out with a metatarsal fracture, but have a clean bill of health otherwise.

Wigan Athletic

Key players Shaun Maloney and Scott Carson are the major absentees for the Latics for their visit to Russia, a big blow to Owen Coyle’s plans.

Recent Form:

Rubin vs Wigan

Rubin Kazan go into the game in better form, having taken seven points from their opening three games while Wigan have done well to win once and draw two for five points.

Wigan arrive in Russia on the back of a 2-1 win against Huddersfield Town in the Championship while Rubin were held to a goalless draw by FK Rostov at the weekend.

Rubin vs Wigan

Players to Watch:

Rubin Kazan – Roman Eremenko

The Finn is Rubin’s joint leading scorer in the Europa League with two strikes to his name and with eight key passes so far in the competition, the Russians will be counting on the midfielder to come up with the goods again.

Roman Eremenko Shot Accuracy

Wigan Athletic – Nick Powell

The Manchester United loanee has been in sparkling form for the Latics this campaign, notching three goals in Europe so far. With Maloney ruled out for several months, it falls to the youngster to provide the inspiration in his absence.

Nick Powell Goals Scored

Prediction:

Wigan have done well in their European campaign but Rubin are an experienced team with plenty of know how at this level, they should have too much for the visitors, especially with home advantage in a freezing cold stadium.

Rubin 2-1 Wigan