Sport

‘This is the right job’: New Wigan Athletic boss Owen Coyle admits Latics appointment is perfect fit

By John McDougall

New Wigan Athletic manager Owen Coyle turned down a series of other opportunities to become the Latics’ new boss and is raring to get started at the DW Stadium.

The 46-year-old Paisley-born manager has been out of work since having his contract at Bolton Wanderers terminated last October.

And the ex-Burnley boss admitted after walking through the doors and meeting chairman Dave Whelan that the setup at the Latics was the right fit.

“I knew when I walked through the doors here that this was the job for me, it gave the impression of a terrific working environment,” he said.

“I have had seven or eight opportunities to get back into management but I’ve been waiting for the right club.

“I feel that this is the right job and I’m really looking forward to starting work at this fantastic club.”

The Scot succeeds Spanish boss Roberto Martinez, who recently left the club to take over the managerial reigns at Everton.

After an eight-year stay in the Premier League came to an end, the Latics squad is shrinking after out-of-contract defender Maynor Figueroa sealed a move to Hull City.

With James McCarthy, Callum McManaman and Shaun Maloney all prized assets, Coyle admitted he does not want to sell anyone, but money generated would be ploughed back into his squad. 

“In regards to numbers, we must add some. We accept there are some hugely talented players left here, who will be coveted by other clubs,” Coyle explained.

“What I do know is that any money will be reinvested into the club, which for a manager, is a huge thing to hear.

“We don’t, as a football club, want to sell anybody or have to sell anybody but we understand how football works and when you have got very talented players there will always be interest.”

One player who will not be coming to the DW Stadium is ex-Bolton forward and Coyle’s former skipper at the Reebok, Kevin Davies.

Although an admirer of the Sheffield-born frontman, Coyle believes the 36-year-old – who was released by the Trotters – is not what he is looking for.

“Kevin was my skipper and an outstanding player,” said Coyle. “It would be remiss of me to mention individual players but he is a good lad.

“I think there is a bit of interest in Kevin but it is probably not what we are looking to bring into the football club although he is an outstanding man.”

Image courtesy of indysportsnewsTV, via YouTube, with thanks.

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