By Alan G
January 19 2006

Latics today completed a double swoop for Blackburn's David Thompson and Liverpool striker Neil Mellor. Midfielder Thompson signed a short-term deal following his release by Rovers, while Mellor has joined on loan until the end of the season.

Mellor, 23, has not played this season, while the injury-proneThompson, 28, has made just eight appearances.

David has shown a real hunger to be involved with the Wigan project," said Latics manager Paul Jewell.

"He's a talented lad who can play in a number of positions and he also has an eye for goal.

"I only believe in bringing players in who add something new to our squad, and in signing David we have done that."

Blackburn boss Mark Hughes added that he felt the time was right to let the former Coventry player leave.

"It has been difficult for David. He has had a lot of injuries and he was coming to the end of his contract here," said Hughes.

"We have a lot of options in midfield, and it was a case of looking at the balance of the squad and seeing what we need for next year."