Latics players jet around the world to play for their countries

The Wigan Athletic training ground has a deserted feel to it as internationals, injury and illness have severely reduced numbers, with manager Steve Bruce having to play a waiting game until players report back to the club later in the week!

Captain MARIO MELCHIOT is away with his country Holland as they face Austria in Vienna tomorrow. However, one Latics player not featuring in that game is Paul Scharner, who was not selected for the Euro 2008 co-hosts. Former Latics midfielder Denny Landzaat is also in the squad.

JASON KOUMAS (and David Cotterill, currently on loan at Sheffield United of course) have travelled with the rest of the Wales squad to play in Luxembourg while ANTONIO VALENCIA is in the Ecuador squad to face Haiti in Latacunga.

WILSON PALACIOS and MAYNOR FIGUEROA have flown to Fort Lauderdale in Florida, USA, venue of Honduras' match against fellow South Americans Colombia, while MARLON KING is in the Jamiacan squad who play Trinidad and Tobago in Kingston. 

KEVIN KILBANE has not travelled anywhere as The Republic of Ireland do not have a game in midweek, but missed training on Monday with a bout of 'flu!!

Perhaps the award for the most exotic trip should go to EMMERSON BOYCE who was recently called up for the 'Bajans' (Barbados) to face Dominica (not to be confused with the Dominican Republic) in Bridgetown.

Meanwhile, ERIK EDMAN has gone to meet up with the Sweden international doctors in London prior to his knee operation following the rupture of his anterior cruciate ligament.

Chris Kirkland is also currently not training as he receives intensive treatment on his back after pulling out of the England squad to play France tomorrow.

Manager Steve Bruce said: "International weeks are always the same.  It is difficult when there are so many players missing and you always have your heart in your mouth a little until they all come back in one piece.

"But it's the same for all Premier League clubs who have internationals in the team. It is one of the aspects of the modern game that you have to just live with."