Wigan Athletic have lost yet another away game, this time in the form of a 1-0 defeat at Derby County.

The Latics dominated large parts of the match, but were made to pay for missed opportunities when Graeme Shinnie struck a last minute winner.

Paul Cook’s side have improved of late, keeping four consecutive clean sheets at home and winning three of those matches.

On the road Wigan continue to struggle though, and have the worst away record in the league having only won one point, in a 2-2 draw at Hull City.

Charlie Mulgrew has played at the heart of the Wigan defence alongside Chey Dunkley for a number of games, the pair have formed a solid partnership. Paul Kendrick reported Mulgrew suffered an injury last night, and had to be replaced by Cedric Kipre.

Although Wigan have defensive cover in Kipre and Danny Fox, Mulgrew has transformed the Wigan defence of late and will be a huge loss.

The 33-year-old has been a key player for Paul Cook's side since arriving from Blackburn Rovers, and has made eight league appearances so far this season.

Wigan fans will be hoping that this injury worry is nothing serious, although it remains to be seen as to whether Mulgrew will be involved for their next game against Bristol City this weekend at Ashton Gate.

The Verdict

It’ll be a big blow to Latics’ plans if Mulgrew is set for a long spell on the sidelines. In a young Wigan defence, Mulgrew has added experience, physicality and brought leadership skills to organise the back four.

It will present an opportunity for Fox to stake his claim to be Dunkley’s regular partner. Fox was impressive towards the end of last season, but has fallen out of favour since the arrival of Mulgrew this season.

Cook will be praying the injury isn’t serious, and that Mulgrew will be fit for Wigan’s trip to Ashton Gate on Sunday.