Cotterill Recalls Wigan Switch

The City Academy graduate, back on loan at Ashton Gate from Birmingham City, left the club for Wigan on deadline day in August 2006.

It was a big move for the 18-year-old, who had made 66 appearances and scored nine goals before his switch to the Premier League with the Latics.

Speaking on Bristol City Player HD, Cotterill has revealed he almost joined another club all those years ago.

“I remember I had joined up with Wales for international duty and I was due to sign for Norwich City,” he said.

“They even sent their chief executive to the Welsh setup to get the deal done, but then I had a phone call from the chairman Steve Lansdown saying Wigan had come in for me and he had accepted their bid.

“They were a Premier League club and at that age it was a no-brainer for me really. I was desperate to play in the Premier League and it came so soon in my career. I’m always grateful to them for giving me that opportunity.”

Cotterill went on to play 18 top-flight games for the Greater Manchester club, who he returns to with City tomorrow (kick-off 3pm).

Both teams currently occupy the Sky Bet Championship relegation zone, with City just a point ahead of their hosts.

“I know it’s a cliché but they’re all big games – this is a massive one though,” he added.

“We need to find a win from somewhere soon and hopefully that can come at the DW Stadium.

“We have to look after our own business and that should see us over the line.”