Wigan Athletic manager Ryan Lowe has delivered a significant surprise, confirming that defender Steven Sessegnon is set to remain with the club for the entire season, a stark reversal from expectations just weeks ago when his future appeared all but over. This unexpected revelation highlights the fluid nature of football squad dynamics and the manager’s evolving plans.

Sessegnon, a 25-year-old talent, found himself at a crossroads at the conclusion of the previous season. He was explicitly made available for transfer, a clear signal that his time at the club might be drawing to an end after failing to register a single appearance in the latter half of the campaign.

His struggles initially stemmed from an injury sustained during Shaun Maloney’s tenure, which kept him sidelined. However, even after regaining full fitness, Sessegnon was unable to secure a place in Lowe’s first-team plans, largely due to the manager’s preferred 3-5-2 formation, which seemingly did not align with the player’s natural style of play or position.

The extent of his marginalization was underscored when he was conspicuously absent from the Latics’ pre-season training camp in Spain. This exclusion cemented the widespread belief that Sessegnon had slipped considerably down the pecking order and was unlikely to feature prominently for the upcoming football season.

However, a crucial turn of events presented an unforeseen lifeline. Will Aimson, a key figure in the squad, received a ban for the initial three league games following a sending-off on the final day of the last term. This disciplinary action created an immediate void in the defensive lineup that needed addressing.

With Aimson’s suspension looming, Sessegnon was thrust into action during the latter stages of pre-season, transitioning into a centre-back role. His performances in this unfamiliar position evidently caught the eye of manager Ryan Lowe, showcasing an adaptability that had previously gone unnoticed or unneeded.

Lowe’s recent declaration confirms his renewed faith in Sessegnon’s capabilities and his potential contribution to the team. This decision not only offers Sessegnon a fresh start but also provides Wigan Athletic with valuable defensive depth, especially crucial as they navigate the early fixtures without Aimson.

In related squad news, Lowe also affirmed that midfielder Matt Smith remains an integral part of his strategic framework. Despite a symbolic change in jersey number, dropping from No.8 to No.17, when the official squad numbers were released, Smith’s place in the team’s plans is secure, reinforcing Lowe’s vision for the squad.