Wigan Athletic manager Roberto Martinez has stuck his neck out and signed Steven Caldwell in an attempt to bolster his struggling defence and help prevent the Latics suffering Premier League relegation.

The 29-year-old dropped out of the top flight with Burnley at the back end of last season and he was a free agent after leaving Turf Moor.

He has been on trial with Wigan for the last few weeks and he has now joined his brother Gary on the books at the DW Stadium.

Martinez's job could be hanging by a thread as Wigan have endured a defensive nightmare in their first two Premier League games. The Premier League relegation betting now suggests they are doomed.

A 4-0 home defeat to top flight new-boys Blackpool was followed up by a 6-0 thrashing at the DW Stadium to reigning Premier League champions Chelsea.

In both games the level of defensive ability showed by Wigan was shocking and Martinez will be hoping the arrival of Scotland international Caldwell can help shore up the leaky backline.

"We have seen what Steven is all about during his time here - a leader on and off the field and he is a great personality to have in the dressing room," the Spanish manager said.

"He has good experience of the Premier League and has played in the Champions League and UEFA Cup, plus is a full Scotland international."

One shining light for Wigan so far this season has been young Scottish midfielder James McCarthy, who was their best player against Blackpool and Chelsea.

The player has said Martinez is a "great manager" who has the backing of everyone at the DW Stadium.

Those attitudes could soon change around the place if defeats continue to happen and Wigan look doomed to a Premier League relegation dogfight this season.

Meanwhile, the Carling Cup odds suggest they side could be on the wrong end of an upset in that competition.

They face Hartlepool who have their own problems, but will want to spring a surprise.