Under fire Wigan boss Roberto Martinez has praised his second choice goalie Richard Kingson, despite not handing the international shot stopper a first team chance.

After the Latics were trounced 9-1 by Spurs a few weeks ago at White Hart Lane, many managers would have opted to drop Wigan's first choice 'keeper Chris Kirkland, after conceding as many goals in one game as he would have reasonably expected to have shipped in five or six.

But not Roberto Martinez. The smooth Spaniard recognised Kirkland's efforts between the sticks and refused to hand understudy Richard Kingson a rare first team start for Wigan's next game.

It proved a shrewd move by the former Swansea boss, as Kirkland helped guide Athletic to a win over Sunderland, keeping a clean sheet in the process.

However, Martinez was full of praise for Kingson, who has yet to taste first team action since the end of last season. He acknowledged the goalie's excellent attitude in training ahead of the World Cup in whcih Kingson will feature as Ghana's number one.

"The World Cup is one of those unique events in any player's career, and you always need to take that into consideration," said Martinez.

"The good thing about Richard is he is undoubtedly the No.1 for Ghana, unlike other national teams where they've two or three options.

"They've huge confidence in Richard who has great status and the No.1 position is his.

"Obviously, Richard hasn't been playing too much which can be frustrating, and sometimes we need to address those situations.

"But looking at his day-to-day work, he has been a real good pro, and when you're like that you get your rewards and what you deserve.

"Richard is calm because he is No.1 for Ghana, and whatever happens he'll still be No.1 for Ghana, which is an advantage."