Wigan Athletic manager Roberto Martinez believes that his side face a "huge challenge" when they get their Premier League campaign underway against Chelsea.
The Latics will not be eased into the new 2012-13 season when they welcome the Blues to the DW Stadium on August 18, but Martinez, who held talks with Liverpool over a possible move last month, has urged his players to be prepared.
"Fixtures day is always one of the highlights of the calendar, and we have been handed a really exciting opening again, with the Champions League winners at the DW," Martinez told the club's official website.
"It's going to be a fascinating start. It's a cliche, but every team is competitive at this level, and we need to be ready for another huge challenge over the coming months."
Meanwhile, Manchester City begin their defence of the Premier League title at home to Southampton while runners-up Manchester United travel to Goodison Park to play Everton.
Danielle Joynson
