Bruce eagerly awaits window closure

Wigan manager Steve Bruce is no fan of the transfer window and having hopefully completed his own business he is counting down the days until it closes.

The arrival of Colombia striker Hugo Rodallega, subject to him obtaining a work permit at a hearing in Manchester on Monday, is likely to be the only new face at the JJB Stadium this month and Bruce is now hoping he does not receive any bids for his own players.

"The transfer window just benefits the big clubs because they can pay more and come and try to prey on clubs like us," he said.

"The last thing I want to be doing is dismantling the squad so we have just to say 'no, they are not for sale no matter what you offer,'" he added.

"We are halfway through the Premier League season and even though we are riding high (in seventh) if you lose your big players your dressing room loses that edge.

"The longer it (the transfer window) goes, especially towards the end, you have to be strong and say no and the players have to understand that if it comes to the end and you can't get a replacement they have to stay here.

"We have them under contract and they have to honour their contract.

"We have had no offers for anyone. That is the story on January 9 and I hope it continues until February 9.

"Rodallega will be it as far as I am concerned and I hope that is it [for players] going out as well."

The Latics have agreed a fee, believed to be around £4.5million, with Mexican club Necaxa and personal terms with the Colombian and his transfer is expected to be completed next week with a successful application for a work permit.