Both Walsall Football Club and Wigan Athletic have today revealed that the pre-season friendly which was due to take place at Leigh Sports Village is now a behind closed doors encounter, to be played at the Christopher Park Training Ground.In a brief statement released via Saddlers.co.uk: "Our proposed pre-season friendly match with Wigan Athletic, scheduled to be played this coming Friday, 11th July has been cancelled following a pitch inspection at Leigh Sports Village.
"Wigan Athletic contacted the club earlier today and, following discussions, the Latics had to make a decision to cancel the fixture. The match will now take place behind closed doors at Christopher Park Training Ground.
"The club would like to apologise to any supporter hoping to watch the team play on Friday. However, Christopher Park is the only available alternative venue to play the game at such short notice and there is no facility to accommodate the public there.
"Supporters who have purchased tickets for the game can obtain a full refund by the Ticket Office."
Wigan Athletic Chief Executive Jonathan Jackson told wiganlatics.co.uk: “Both ourselves and Leigh Sports Village were all hopeful that the pitch would have recovered following a busy schedule with the Rugby League season in full swing, other pre-season games and the Elton John concert last month, but unfortunately, we have now had to make this decision.
“We wish to stress this is in no way a reflection on Leigh Sports Village and we intend to maintain a close relationship moving forwards because it is a superb facility, professionally run and we thank them for their cooperation in this matter.”