Shaun Maloney emphasized that Josh Magennis fully deserved the enthusiastic reception he received from the Wigan Athletic fans during their 2-0 win against Bristol Rovers.

Magennis, the 33-year-old team captain whose contract expires this summer, scored the opening goal at the half-hour mark and had another goal disallowed for offside in the second half. However, it was Magennis’s overall contribution that particularly impressed Maloney, with the supporters of Wigan Athletic demonstrating their appreciation by giving him a standing ovation when he was substituted for Charlie Kelman during the final 20 minutes of the match, which was already comfortably in their team’s favor.

“I thought Josh was brilliant, really good,” said the Latics boss. “He showed speed and power in a wide area, and he took the first goal very well.

“He dominated the defence…his performance was…very, very good.”

Regarding the reception Josh Magennis received from the Northern Ireland international fans, Maloney remarked: “I was delighted to see that, because when I joined the club midway through last season, there wasn’t that strong connection between Josh and the supporters.

“However, I believe the fans now truly appreciate everything Josh has contributed this year, particularly off the pitch.

“Last summer, we faced a period when players were departing, including some we wanted to retain and who would have been beneficial this season. Josh stepped up during that time and has been an exceptional presence within the group.

“Although he hadn’t previously served as captain, he has been outstanding this year.

“I was thrilled with the fans’ response because Josh truly earned every bit of that recognition.”