Away from all the Roma controversy, here’s a revealing interview with Chris Baird. We’ve talked before about the raw deal Baird’s received from some quarters at Fulham and how he has become one of the most valuable members of the squad, but the Northern Ireland international is searingly honest about his two years at Craven Cottage. All the more endearing is the fact that Baird wants to commit to the club long-term.

For all his versatility, Baird says he knows he’s not a right back or a central midfielder. That spell at full-back under Sanchez must have been soul destroying. Some of our ‘fans’ got on his back and he looked utterly spent as wingers roared past him. With Hughes and Hangeland forming such a steady partnership at the heart of the defence, Baird knew it would be difficult to get a go in his natural position. The tide began to turn when he stepped in for Hangeland at Tottenham last season and gave an assured performance. With injuries reducing Hodgson’s options, Baird has been a revealation in central midfield this year.

It was good at the start. But I wasn’t playing in the right position at right-back – and I had a tough time with the fans – everyone knows that.

It’s been hard because Brede and Aaron have been solid. I’ve been patient I know I’m not a right-back or a centre mid – but at the moment I’m just enjoying getting in the team.

Before this, I’d not being playing much in the league – so the Europa Cup for me has been fantastic. If you train all week, but you’re on the bench at the weekend, it’s bound to be frustrating.

Never once did I think I’d made a big mistake. I know my best position is centre-back – and I’ve just had to be patient. In regards to a new contract, it’s up to the club if they want to approach me – if they do, then we should sit down and talk about it.

Baird also reckons Wigan will be keen to make up for their hammering at Portsmouth last weekend.

Wigan lost heavily to Portsmouth last weekend – and that’s always difficult for the next team to face them, because they’ll want to bounce back.