Wigan, who expressed an interest in Shaun Goater before he opted for Reading, made an unsuccessful attempt to lure the Bermudian?s strike partner to the north-west yesterday.

The Latics made an audacious ?750,000 bid for Nicky Forster, Reading?s top goalscorer, but were rebuffed by the Royals.

Forster is currently sidelined with a stomach injury, Goater, himself only just fit again after injury, taking his place in the line-up for last weekend?s 3-3 FA Cup draw with Preston.

Goater is expected to get the nod again tomorrow when Reading host Ipswich in Division One.

He is set to partner on-loan Lloyd Owusu at the Madejski Stadium.