Daniel de Ridder says Steve Bruce convinced him to sign 'in seconds'

Latics' new Dutch midfield master Daniel de Ridder says he made his mind up to sign for the club 'seconds' after picking up the phone to manager Steve Bruce.

The 24 year old Holland Under 21 midfielder, who can play in a variety of positions, says that when someone like Steve Bruce comes calling and says he want you in his team, you would be a fool to refuse.

"Steve is a great manager," says de Ridder, who has signed a three year deal at the JJB Stadium. "when he says he wants you, you say, where do I sign?

"When you look at what he has achieved in the game and his track record in management, it's clear he understands the game.

"Having worked with him last year, I know he's a great man manager, he knows how to get the best out of players."

De Ridder says he has spoken to club captain Mario Melchiot, who also has his footballing roots at the Ajax Academy in Amsterdam, and "he told me only good things about Wigan.

"Mario says it is a great club with supporters who care deeply about their team and who have made him really welcome."

De Ridder says the attraction of being in the Barclays Premier League is where every professional footballer wants to be.

"I got a taste of it last season at Birmingham but after a couple of niggling injuries I never felt I got the chance to prove what I can do at this level.

"Now my focus is going to be completely on doing well for Steve and the people of Wigan.

"I know it is going to be really tough to get in the side, there are some excellent players here and I am sure that competition will just get stronger and stronger in the coming months.

"But this is the best league in the world and you have to fight for what you achieve when you get to this level.

"I can't wait now to get started, to meet everybody and start my new life as a Wigan Athletic player!"