Emmerson Boyce has revealed his relief following the return of Gary Caldwell to the Wigan Athletic team.

The central defender had been absent for a number of weeks due to a hamstring injury but played in the defeat to Everton on Boxing Day, and Boyce believes that the Latics defence is stronger with the 30-year-old.

"It was great to have Gary back in the team because he is our captain and a vital body in defence that has been missing," the Barbados international told the club's official website.

"He had a good game and it was good to see him back and with Ivan Ramis hopefully returning soon, we should be back to our full strength at the defence.

"We're close to having the whole squad fit and we're going to need that as we get further and further into the second half of the season."

Wigan are currently 18th in the Premier League.