Wigan are flying high in League One and Nick Powell has played an integral part in our successful start to the campaign. The attacking midfielder is still only 23 and remains highly rated but does he deserve a second chance to prove himself in the Premier League?

Powell has had previous top flight experience but only played three times for Manchester United after the Red Devils shelled out £6 million for his services from Crewe. He netted his first and only strike for the Premier League side against his current employers after coming off the bench with 19 minutes remaining. United fans will also remember Louis Van Gaal bringing on the Cheshire born youngster during the club’s crucial Champions League tie with Wolfsburg as they desperately hunted for two goals to keep them in the competition. Powell replaced Juan Mata with 20 minutes left on the clock leaving fans scratching their heads over the decision.


Source: Wigan Athletic via Twitter

The England Under 21 star had unsuccessful loan spells at both Hull and Leicester but has seemingly found his feet at the DW. He scored on his debut during his second spell at the club but has suffered numerous injury setbacks during his 14 months at Wigan Athletic. He endured a stop-start campaign at the club last season but can’t have been helped by the uncertainty in the dug-out. He missed three months of the season through injury but scored upon his return at the start of April to secure the Latics a vital three points against Rotherham.

Manager Paul Cook was appointed this summer and he is clearly a fan of the 23 year old. He praised Powell’s quality and admitted we may not have seen the best of him yet. He’s netted four times in seven matches and claimed one assist in League One this season and fans are thoroughly enjoying his contribution.


Source: BBC RM Sport via Twitter

Powell is handy from a set-piece and his intelligent play helps fashion numerous chances for his team-mates. He has plenty to prove but is still young enough to reach his potential and many feel he deserves a second chance in the Premier League.

The former Crewe man scored an 11 minute hat-trick last season against Barnsley proving he can cut it in the Championship and he could undoubtedly take another step up if required. Unfortunately Powell’s injury record has held him back somewhat and if any Premier League club gave him the opportunity to impress, patience will be required. Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement shortly after signing the attacking midfielder appears to have hindered his development and if he was to work with a Premier League manager such as Eddie Howe or Marco Silva, he could really flourish.

Powell is an attractive looking 25/1 with Paddy Power to finish as top goalscorer in League One this season as Wigan are likely to continue their push for promotion back to the Championship. The Latics are 7/4 favourites to finish top of the division and they have made a wonderful start winning six of their first eight games.

Both Crewe and Wigan fans agree that Powell is a quality player and very few would begrudge him the chance to prove himself in the top flight once again. Playing for a mid-table side who are likely to be out of the spotlight may be the best way of easing himself back into Premier League football although Latics fans will be hoping he remains with the club and play a key role in helping fire them back to the top tier.

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