Matt Peet reveals talks with Wigan football chief as clubs’ relations improve

MATT Peet is picking things up from Wigan football counterpart Shaun Maloney as he hopes to bring more rugby league glory to the town.

And a new relationship between the Warriors and Athletic since the latter’s takeover can boost both.

Previously, the two tenants of the DW Stadium were uneasy bed mates, with the 13-a-side code seemingly behind the football in the pecking order.

But Peet believes learning from the man in charge of the round ball side after League One Latics were bought by Mike Danson, who owns 25 per cent of the rugby club, can boost his quest.

He said as he still has his eyes on a double, winning Super League and retaining the Challenge Cup: “Shaun and I get together to exchange ideas.

“There’s plenty I can take from him. He’s a very well-educated coach. He’s been on a really good journey, including working with Belgium and Roberto Martinez.

“He went to the Cruyff Coaching Academy, so we’ve spoken a lot about his development there and managing players generally, rather than training programs or strength and conditioning.

“It’s more about managing players and managing people we talk about. We’ve spoken about how we manage our weeks, our staff and our players.

“The same things apply in any sport or walk of life – communication is the most important thing. Once everyone wants the best for one another, you can speak openly.

“It’s like that with Shaun, once you get that rapport, you can work on trying to better yourself.

“I don’t know what the catalyst was but I admit a few things seem to suggest we’re working well together.

“It just seems like there have been a few positive steps both ways – the clubs working well together and sharing ideas.

“Whether he’s taken anything from me, I’m not too sure!”