Thomas aims to take second chance

2nd July 2009

New Wigan midfielder Hendry Thomas is determined to make a success of his career in England having been given a second chance by the club.

The 24-year-old Honduran was due to join the Latics 12 months ago but was denied a work permit and, although the deal was then due to be completed this summer, the exit of Steve Bruce as manager threw that into doubt. But new boss Roberto Martinez has welcomed the Deportivo Olimpia player on board and now Thomas is looking to repay that faith.

"It was my dream to come to England with this club, I felt very good about it from the beginning," said the defensive midfielder, who has won 31 caps for his country.

"I felt very bad because of what happened (last summer) but I was at ease because I knew the door was always open if I complied with the rules regarding the national team.

"When I heard Bruce had left I was worried because I did not know the new manager coming in but I finally realised I am welcome here.

"I was very well received by the new manager and I got a very good impression of him.

"I want to thank Roberto Martinez and Wigan for giving me the chance to come here and I'm determined to show them they have not made a mistake.

"Having a Spanish-speaking manager will help me but I am determined to learn the language quickly because Roberto has told me already the team talks will be in English."