Wigan Athletic v Sheffield U: GARETH Whalley may have to wait for his Wigan Athletic debut after signing on a free transfer from Cardiff.

The midfielder's move to the Latics was completed just before Tuesday night's goalless draw with Burnley, but manager Paul Jewell wanats to give him time to regain his match fitness before throwing him into the first team.

Whalley, aged 29, was frozen out of the first team towards the end of his time at Ninian Park over a contractual dispute.

It is the second time Jewell has signed Whalley, who joined Bradford from Crewe when the Latics boss was at Valley Parade.

Jewell said: "I know all about Gareth. He brings us added quality to our squad. I'm very pleased to have brought him in, and he could be a very influential signing for us."

Wigan will be looking for a victory tomorrow which could see them return to the top of the Championship if leaders Stoke slip up at home to Nottingham Forest.

Opponents Sheffield United have been linked with a move for Southampton striker Brett Ormerod, but Blades boss Neil Warnock has dismissed the reports.