Wigan manager Roberto Martinez is relishing a tactical battle of wits with Fulham's experienced Roy Hodgson.

Martinez is in his debut season with the club having arrived from Swansea in the summer after a spell with the Latics as a player.

The Spanish boss wants his side to gain some consistency and they go into Sunday's Premier League match on the back of a heavy defeat by Portsmouth.

Ahead of the match, though, Martinez paid tribute to his Fulham counterpart.

Martinez said: "Roy Hodgson is an outstanding manager and Fulham had an exceptional season last year.

"If you look at his career, it is very impressive. He has worked in a number of different cultures and been in charge of some very good teams, clubs and countries.

"In my case you learn from your own experiences. I came over in 1995 when I was 21.

"It was a culture shock coming to the lower leagues but 14 years in the British game gives you experience. I admire many managers and Roy Hodgson is one of them."

Like Wigan, Fulham are hurting after losing to Roma in the Europa League and Martinez is expecting a difficult test at the DW Stadium.

He said: "They are well disciplined, well organised and have a group of players who have been working together for a long time.

"Playing in Europe always give you a great feeling. I do not think it will be a negative aspect for Fulham.

"They will come here wanting to bounce back from the disappointment against Roma.

"We know as well that Fulham beat Liverpool so we are aware how dangerous they can be. But we need to bounce back."

Meanwhile Martinez is pleased with the way James McCarthy is adapting to life in England.

The 18-year-old midfielder is being broken in gently after arriving from Hamilton in the summer.

McCarthy made his full debut in the Carling Cup and has notched up one substitute appearance in the league.

Martinez went on: "James is a young man with fantastic ability. He is a great talent and will become a special player.

"He is slowly coming to terms with the Premier League and I am 100 per cent sure he will have a massive say as this club progresses.

"We have to make sure we look after him so that he is at his best on the pitch."