Wigan Athletic midfielder Jordan Cousins could return for the Latics' important clash with Bolton Wanderers on Saturday, as per a report from Manchester Evening News. 

Playing just one league game since mid-October, Cousins was first side-lined with a hamstring issue, before picking up a thigh injury in his return against Shrewsbury in December. 

Cousins racked up 70 minutes of action in an U23s clash with Millwall last week and could be involved in some capacity when Wigan welcome the Trotters to the DW Stadium on Saturday afternoon. 

The 28-year-old, who arrived from Stoke City in the summer, started the campaign in fine form and almost immediately emerged as a regular in the starting line up. 

It remains to be seen if Cousins will play a part for the Latics when Saturday comes, with the 28-year-old hoping to make an impact in what remains of this campaign.

The verdict 

It has been a difficult few months for Cousins, as just when he thought he was getting back on track, injury struck again. 

As a result, both the club and Cousins himself will be careful when it comes to his return, however, the fact he got through 70 minutes with the U23s was certainly a positive. 

Sitting a point from top-spot with two games in hand, the Latics look in an excellent position to secure a return to the Championship, however, they will be wary of MK Dons, who are looking to capitalise on any slip-ups from the current top two. 

The return of Cousins will certainly be a boost during the nine games that remain, not just because of the evident quality he possesses, but for a competition for places angle too.