Wigan boss Steve Bruce has turned his attentions to Emmerson Boyce as he seeks to tie star players to new deals at the JJB Stadium.Boyce still has two years left on his current deal, but Bruce is anxious to retain the 28-year-old.

Chris Kirkland has already pledged his future to Latics and Bruce is hoping Boyce will soon follow suit.

Bruce is also discussing new deals for Mike Pollitt and Paul Scharner as he looks to keep the bulk of his squad intact during the close season.

"We're having discussions with Boyce about him getting a new deal - he's done very well here," Bruce told the Wigan Evening Post.

"He came into the team during the season and it's hard to remember him putting a foot wrong once he got in.

"Most of the time Boyce was playing at centre-half, but in the last couple of games we switched him to right-back when Mario Melchiot was injured, and he did well there too.

"As far as the other contract negotiations are concerned, I would think Polly will sign for another year.

"There's nothing more to report on Scharner as yet, things have gone a bit quiet. Hopefully we can make some progress over the next few weeks.

"I was delighted to get Kirkland's contract done the other week. Sorting out players already at the club is just as important as bringing in new signings."

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