SHELL-shocked Wigan coach Ian Millward insists he will not rush into short-term signings in a knee-jerk reaction to the club's current crisis ahead of the "must win"clash with Leigh Centurions at Hilton Park on Friday night.

Millward admits he needs to bolster his squad but will only bring in players if he feels they will strengthen it considerably.

The Warriors coach is being urged to act after the club's record 70-0 and 75-0 losses to Leeds and St Helens but Millward concedes he has his work cut out to find suitable new players.

The Australian said: "If the right person is available, then yes, but I am not going to bring a player in in the short term because he is available.

"I brought Liam Botham in because he gives us mobility, has got a great attitude and a good motor. Players have got to be able to improve the squad as I believe Liam will."

Wigan continued their recruitment for next season when they announced the signing of Kiwi prop Iafeta Paleaasina from New Zealand Warriors.

The 23-year-old - whom Millward considered signing when St Helens coach - has agreed a three-year deal starting in 2006 and will arrive at the JJB Stadium along with fellow new signings Bryan Fletcher and Pat Richards.

But it is Wigan's present predicament, not next season, that is most pressing with the club only three points above the engage Super League relegation zone and facing the crucial game at Leigh.

Millward said: "Iafeta is a player I have been monitoring for 18 months. He is a fantastic signing for the club.

"He has the best 'go forward' in the NRL and will become a cult figure here. When he charges in he is quite daunting and impressive.

"But that is looking long term - we have also got short-term issues to deal with. I don't want to focus too much on the long term.

"We have got to work harder, we need to be positive. It is imperative to win (on Friday). We desperately need some confidence."

Paleaasina is not put off by Wigan's problems and is looking forward to linking up with compatriot and fellow front rower Jerry Seuseu.

He said: "It's a great thrill to be joining Wigan and my good friend Jerry Seuseu. I had several offers but Wigan is still the biggest name down here and it will be a thrill to play for them."