WIGAN boss Leam Richardson has responded to Ian Evatt’s claim that Wanderers are “the best team in the league”.

The Latics make the short journey to the UniBol this weekend for a highly anticipated League One derby match.

Richardson praised the Whites for what they have achieved in recent years but insists the league table always reflects where sides deserve to be.

“You’d have to ask why he’s saying they’re the best team in the league, because there’s another 20-plus teams in there,” he told Wigan Today.

“I think it’s great that he’s got so much confidence in himself and his players. He’s the leader of that team, so he’s got to profess that going forwards.

“And I think they’ve made some good strides from where they were, having come from a similar place as ourselves, in terms of administration.

“Listening to Ian, he’s obviously happy in himself with that level of performance they’re delivering. But listen, leagues are won and lost in May, so wherever teams finish is where they deserve to.

“Whether you’re first, sixth, 18th or bottom, that’s probably where you deserve to be. Nothing’s won or lost in October, or even in January.

“It’s great to have belief in your own side, but every other team will be working just as hard to achieve their goals.”

Richardson’s men have made a strong start to the campaign and sit third in the league table, having won seven of their opening 10 fixtures.

The Latics won on penalties when the sides met in the Carabao Cup earlier this season following a goalless draw at the DW Stadium.

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