Roberto Martinez in favour of pre-match handshakes

Wigan Athletic manager Roberto Martinez believes that the pre-match handshakes that take place before Premier League fixtures should continue.

The long-time pre-kickoff ritual has come under criticism in recent seasons following several high-profile snubs.

After being given an eight-match ban for racially abusing Patrice Evra, Luis Suarez decided not to shake the Frenchman's hand when Liverpool faced Manchester United last year, while just last week, Anton Ferdinand snubbed both John Terry and Ashley Cole prior to Queens Park Rangers' game with Chelsea after their own racism row.

The uproar caused by such events has lead to many managers calling for the tradition to be scrapped, but Martinez disagrees, claiming that it sets an example of respect to young fans and players.

"I can only speak from our point of view and the handshake gesture has been a real success for us," he said.

"We never had a problem and I think it is the right message to send out, but I can understand when you get an issue with the handshakes not bringing the message you want to bring it becomes a bit of a problem.

"For us at Wigan the handshake has been a respectful way of welcoming the opposition on to the pitch or be welcomed wherever you go and set standards for the game, and that has been our message to the younger generation."

The Latics host Fulham in Premier League action this weekend.