This tends to be an eventful time of the season for Charles N’Zogbia. Last January, he was dubbed, accidentally or otherwise, “Insomnia” by Joe Kinnear, prompting the midfielder to abandon Newcastle’s sinking ship for the calmer waters of Wigan. Now, while reportedly touting himself to Birmingham City, the midfielder courted further controversy last Wednesday by heading straight for the Old Trafford tunnel and opting not to shake hands with his replacement, Scott Sinclair, when substituted in Wigan’s 5-0 defeat to Manchester United.

This cup tie provided a rapid reversal of fortunes, even by the Frenchman’s standards. He was the catalyst for a comeback that may not prove memorable – only 5,335 supporters witnessed it – but at least it suggested a commitment to the Wigan cause.

This time N’Zogbia himself was the substitute. The manager, Roberto Martínez, has appeared reluctant to summon reinforcements during his time at Wigan. Decisive action brought a response, however, when N’Zogbia, introduced after half-time, struck within two minutes. Trademark acceleration enabled the Frenchman to combine with Jason Scotland, accepting the latter’s pass before producing a crisp finish for the equalising goal.

N’Zogbia contributed, too, as Wigan took the lead. Cutting infield from the right, he found James McCarthy, whose 20-yard shot was deflected before beating Boaz Myhill, giving the teenager his first Wigan goal.

N’Zogbia’s involvement in the third goal was even greater. He took a short corner, accepted a return pass from Sinclair and meandered into the penalty area before placing a low shot into the far corner of the goal. Sinclair provided a fitting end to proceedings, finishing adeptly from an astute angle.

While Martínez had made six changes, his Hull counterpart, Phil Brown, had made seven. Nevertheless, his side led at half-time. After Titus Bramble fouled Kamil Zayatte, Geovanni provided the breakthrough. A free-kick three minutes earlier, sailing harmlessly over the bar, proved the dry run. Having adjusted his radar, the Brazilian curled his second attempt beyond Mike Pollitt with enviable ease.

FA CupWigan AthleticHull CityRichard Jollyguardian.co.uk