Defender Boyce has missed the Latics' last three games due to a range of problems that started with a back injury he picked up against Liverpool last month, while midfielder Thomas took a knock to the leg at Manchester City that kept him out of the 2-1 defeat at Fulham. Ten days will have elapsed since that loss at Craven Cottage by the time Wigan welcome Portsmouth to the DW Stadium on Wednesday, and Martinez is crossing his fingers that his squad - which will again be missing the suspended Gary Caldwell - will feel the benefit as they continue their fight for survival in the Premier League. "A 10-day break gives you a great chance to recover," Martinez told the Wigan Evening Post. "We just hope that as every day goes by, there is a big improvement, and we hope they will be available for Wednesday. "Obviously Gary will still be sidelined, but it's important that in the last few games we get as many bodies back into the camp." Wigan are currently four points above the drop zone with five games to play and Martinez feels the return of Boyce will be "vital" for the remainder of their campaign. "Everything started in the game against Liverpool," Martinez said. "His problem is his lower back and it's a difficult area to treat because it's quite big. "After that he got a stiff neck, but I don't think he is too far away from being fit very soon. "Emmerson is not the type of player who misses out on much. I don't just mean games - he doesn't miss many training sessions either. "He is a great example for all the kids and youngsters at the club. "His experience is going to be vital - and we all want him to be back as soon as possible."
