Discount Dan, The Wigan Man

We've already looked at Wigan defenders as likely cheap value this season, and today we look at a Wigan midfielder. Anyone would think I was a Wigan fan (I am not). However they are a solid squad that even the bookies think will not be relegated; most betting outlets putting them a comfortable 3 teams above the drop come the end of the season. As such, we are finding some cheap quality players in their squad - if you know where to look.

Daniel De Ridder is one of Wigan's new midfield signings, and his first couple of outings have been very promising indeed. In Wigan's most recent preseason friendly against Sheffield Wednesday, De Ridder played the full 90 minutes and accrued 2 assists, both from corners. He also had a fantastic 25 yard free kick superbly saved.

This looks promising that he will take a lot of Wigan's set pieces, which always equates to Fantasy points in any sport.

He also scored a hat-trick in their previous friendly against Barnsley, including a very impressive 20 yard thunderbolt off the bar. In the same game he took (and missed) a penalty. Actually, "missed" is harsh, as the Barnsley keeper made a fine low save to deny him.

This isn't a sure lock that he will take Wigan's penalties during the regular season, but at the same time it is certainly is an indicator that he is one of those in contention to step up to the spot when penalties occur.

You can never read too much into the early preseason friendlies, but we are only a couple of weeks away from the season kicking off now, and De Ridder has played a full 90 in both of Wigan's matches since he signed from Birmingham. He looks like a solid starter and a very lively winger - and the best part is he is the cheapest midfielder in the game, at £4.5 million pounds.

De Ridder is definately a fine choice as a bench, or even a regular, starter who should increase in value and accrue some good points during the season.