Wigan manager Roberto Martinez will sacrifice points rather than his principles in pursuit of a greater purpose.

As a former Latics player from the mid-1990s the Spaniard is well aware of the club's history and the struggle to make it to the Barclays Premier League.

Martinez was brought in as a player by chairman Dave Whelan when he bought Wigan in 1995 with the club in the bottom division of the Football League.

Having returned this summer to replace Steve Bruce as manager Martinez knows it is vital to maintain the Latics' run in the top-flight which is currently in its fifth year.

But he is determined to do it his way, setting up the club for a more successful future in the process.

While the likes of Stoke survived last season - their maiden Premier League campaign - with a direct and robust approach Martinez has told his squad to play their way up the table.

"It is not a matter of trying to scrape results because it is only a matter of time before you get found out as a club and you won't be able to build for the future," he said.

"We are here for the short term but I am keeping an eye on the long term as well because we need to take the club to the next level and to do that we have to have those solid foundations."

After Saturday's surprise opening-day victory at Aston Villa Wigan host Wolves tonight with greater expectations on them.

However, Martinez said they cannot afford to take Mick McCarthy's side lightly despite them coming up from the Coca-Cola Championship.

"I don't think anyone takes anyone else for granted. I haven't met a manager in the league that under-estimates any team," said the Latics boss.

"I don't think it is going to be any different in opponents' approach to Wigan.

"For us the victory at Aston Villa gives us a bit of confidence but there are many things we need to do better and keep growing as a squad.

"I think Wolves are going to be very difficult opposition.

"Apart from the top four (Manchester United, Liverpool, Chelsea and Arsenal) no-one else has the right to believe they will get a result against them."

Midfielder Charles N'Zogbia is a doubt tonight after sustaining a knock at Villa Park while goalkeeper Chris Kirkland has a dead leg, although he is not expected to miss out.