TOWN have turned to a top spy to help plot the downfall of Wigan Athletic.

Midfielder Alan McLoughlin (below) is currently training with Roy Evans' side but little over a month ago the former Republic of Ireland international was part of the fittings at the JJB Stadium.

Although not strictly a Town player, McLoughlin is more than happy to give Evans a few pointers ahead of tomorrow's clash with the Latics.

His contract was cancelled by mutual consent last month and the former Town star has returned to Wiltshire, making a couple of appearances in the reserves.

He said: "I have no ties with Wigan now and will be happy to give Roy Evans and Malcolm Crosby some pointers on their squad and style of play.

"Wigan have struggled at home this season. You have a 25,000-seater stadium but only 5,000 fans watching. It doesn't make for the best atmosphere.

"Paul Jewell has a large squad and it hasn't gelled as yet. It's probably also the case that when you have 25 or so players who would all get a game at another First or Second Division club, you can't keep everyone happy."

Although McLoughlin has witnessed first hand Wigan's poor run of home form, he said the Latics' 6-1 thrashing of Stoke should serve as a guard against complacency.

He said: "Simon Howarth is a terrific finisher and Wigan have the best defender in Division Two in Arjan De Zeeuw.

"But if Swindon can start well, I see no reason why they can't take the points."

The player is remaining tight-lipped about the possibility of a permanent switch to the County Ground and present boardroom uncertainty means Evans could not move for McLoughlin even if he wanted to.

He said: "I'm enjoying myself, enjoying the training and the lads have made me feel welcome. Let's just wait and see."