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| | | HAGEN DAS-LER
Norwegian international defender Erik Hagen signs on loan
Wigan Athletic have confirmed that Norwegian international defender Erik Hagen has signed on loan from Russian club Zenit St Petersburg until the end of the season, subject to international clearance.
The deal for the 32 year old 6ft 2in inch defender has been completed before the midnight transfer deadline, and the player will jet into Wigan tomorrow morning (Friday) to join up with his new team mates and take part in his first training session, ahead of Saturday's match against West Ham United.
Hagen, who operates mostly as a centre half, has played 24 times for his country and is a regular member of the current Norway set-up, as well as amassing UEFA Cup experience in Russia. He comes with a reputation for being a tough-tackling, no-nonsense defender and Latics manager Steve Bruce is delighted he has come on board:
"Erik is a player who lives to defend," he said, "he is an experienced international and is no stranger to the big occasion. He is aggressive, fantastic in the air and can read the game very well. He is a leader on the field and he will add tremendous competition at the back for us. I wouldn't have brought him here unless I thought he had the attributes to be a hit in the Premier League."
With just hours to go in the transfer window, Hagen will in most probability be the final player to come to the club this January, and Bruce has declared himself satisfied with the new arrivals. Hagen joins the Honduran pair of Wilson Palacios and Maynor Figueroa, Sweden international full back Erik Edman, Watford striker Marlon King and the permanent signing of Antonio Valencia.
"I think we've done some good business," he said, "and to have four new faces through the door - plus Antonio Valencia permanently - will freshen up the squad and hopefully give us the impetus we need to kick on for what is going to be a very tough few months ahead.
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 | ABSOLUTELY FABIO
HESKEY AND KIRKLAND NAMED IN ENGLAND SQUAD
Latics manager Steve Bruce has expressed his delight about the Latics pair of Emile Heskey and Chris Kirkland being included in Fabio Capello's provisional England squad for the friendly against Switzerland on Wednesday February 6th.
"Its fantastic news for them," he said, "and it's a great boost to the club to know that our players are getting the recognition they deserve and that Wigan Athletic players are not being overlooked.
"Emile was very unlucky to get a serious injury earlier in the season, just as he had regained his place in the England squad, and I really happy for him because he is a fantastic player and, of his type, I maintain he is among the best English traditional English strikers there are around at the moment.
"As for Chris, he is a top quality goalkeeper, who has been really consistent during my time here. He has all the attributes a goalkeeper needs and I am delighted for him."
Heskey made club history earlier this season when he became the first Wigan Athletic player to play for England, after being recalled for the Euro qualifiers against Israel and Russia, and impressing hugely as he gained his 44th and 45th caps.
"I've said before that my priority at the moment is to help Wigan," he said, "and I'm totally focused on that. But I also said that if England came along it would be a nice bonus after what has happened to me this season. I'm delighted to get recalled, it's always a massive honour to play for your country."
Kirkland gained his one England cap in August 2006 in a friendly match against Greece whilst on loan to Latics from Liverpool.
He said: "It's a big surprise to get called up but I'm delighted. Playing for England was one of the proudest days of my life. Of course my number one ambition this season is to keep doing well for Wigan and helping the club, but it is a big confidence boost to get an England call-up and I'm looking forward to hooking up with the lads next week."
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LONG LIVE THE KING
Latics win the race to sign Watford hot-shot Marlon King.
Wigan Athletic are delighted to confirm that they have beaten off interest from several other Barclays Premier League clubs to land Watford's Jamaican international striker Marlon King.
The 27 year old travelled to Wigan on Friday to discuss personal terms, pass a medical and sign a three and a half year deal at the JJB Stadium after the clubs agreed an undisclosed fee.
King is not eligible to play in the FA Cup tomorrow as he is cup tied but does come into the reckoning for Tuesday's trip to Middlesbrough.
King, who has scored 36 goals in 81 appearances for The Hornets, has also played 12 times for his country, scoring six goals.He scored 21 goals in Watford's run into the Premiership in 2006 and is currently on 11 for the season. His other former clubs include Barnet, Gillingham and Nottingham Forest, whilst he also had a spell at Leeds United on loan.
A delighted Steve Bruce said: "I've been looking to bolster our attacking line up and Marlon certainly fits the bill. He's a proven finisher who provides us with a different kind of goal-scoring threat. He has scored goals at every level he has played at and he is hungry to make an impact in the Premier League again.
"I believe he is the kind of player who could make a real difference to us. He's an aggressive, with great pace and a natural ability to finish, something every manager looks for.
"This is tremendous news for us, especially as there were other clubs in for him. It speaks volumes about the potential there is at this club."
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 | ZAAT'S ALL FOLKS
Denny Landzaat joins Feyenoord
Club confirms Dutch international midfielder Denny Landzaat has returns to Holland to join Feyenoord for an undisclosed fee.
Landzaat flew to Holland late yesterday (Friday) after an offer from the Rotterdam side was accepted, and the deal has now been complete.
Landzaat joined Latics from AZ Alkmaar in the summer of 2006, and made 54 appearances for the club in total, 52 in the Barclays Premier League, scoring three goals.
Landzaat has played 19 times this season, and despite being a regular starter for Steve Bruce, the manager has reluctantly agreed to let him go.
"I said I didn't particularly want to lose any other players this January," he said, "and he has done well for me. But sometimes in football, you have to make difficult decisions and when the offer came in, it was one we decided to accept. He leaves with all our good wishes."
Landzaat, 31, probably enjoyed his finest moment in a Latics shirt when he scored a sensational long-range goal at the Emirates Stadium last season and he has been a regular in the side since he arrived.
He said: "I'd just like to thank the Wigan fans because they have always been good to me. I'm confident the team will do well and survive this season."
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ERIK'S A LATIC
Posted on: Fri 18 Jan 2008
Wigan Athletic are delighted to confirm that they have beaten off competition from several other Premiership clubs to land highly rated Swedish international left back Erik Edman.
The 29 year-old becomes Steve Bruce's second signing for the club following the capture of Wilson Palacios last week, joining from French club Rennes for an undisclosed fee and signing a two and a half year deal at the JJB Stadium.
The deal is subject to international clearance, and it is therefore highly unlikely he will be cleared to play against Everton on Sunday.
NATIONAL COLOURS: Edman In Action For Sweden
Edman has played 53 times for his country and is a regular in the current Sweden line up. He spent a season at Tottenham Hotspur in 2004-05, where he made 31 appearances in the Premiership and is remembered for his spectacular 35 yard goal at Anfield against Liverpool.
He has also played for Helsingborgs and AIK in Sweden, Karlsruher SC in Germany and SC Heerenveen in the Netherlands.
Steve Bruce said: "Finding a left back was always going to be a transfer priority and Erik is a top international who has experience of the Premier League. He knows what this league is all about, and has all the attributes to become a big success at the club.
"He has a fantastic left foot and decent pace, is good in the air, brave and reads the game well.
"It's not often such experienced left backs of this quality become available and I'm not surprised so many other clubs have been interested in him. I'm delighted he's chosen to come to us."
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| VIVA VALENCIA!
Posted on: Fri 18 Jan 2008
Wigan Athletic are delighted to confirm that Ecuador winger Antonio Valencia has signed permanently for the club from Spanish side Villareal, for an undisclosed fee.
The 21 year-old put has pen to paper on a three and a half year contract that will keep him at the JJB Stadium until the summer of 2011.
The deal is still subject to international clearance, but this only relates to the latter part of his contract, he currently has clearance to play in the Premier League until the end of 2008
Manager Steve Bruce is delighted to have concluded the deal.
Valencia Has Impressed Steve Bruce
"I knew about him before I came to the club," said Bruce, "but having seen him at close quarters these past few weeks, I now realise just how good he is and to get him signed permanently was one of my priorities. I felt it was important to get it done sooner rather than later.
"He is the sort of player who I believe can play a big role in the Premier League future of this club. He has pace, trickery, is strong as an ox and has a great work ethic. Plus he's a really likeable boy.
"Now that his future is sorted out, I want him to focus completely on his football and keep improving because I believe he has the potential to be a top, top player."
Valencia has played 35 times in the Barclays Premier League for Latics since arriving on loan at the start of the 2006-07 season, scoring one goal. He has been an ever-present in the league since Steve Bruce's arrival, playing every minute of every match.
Valencia said: "I am really happy this has been sorted. I have always wanted to play in England and now that Wigan have given me the chance, I am happy to repay them by staying here.
"The Premier League is a fantastic place to play and I have really enjoyed working with Steve Bruce, you can see how the team is motivated now and I think he will be successful here in the seasons to come.
"I also thank the Wigan fans who often sing my name, which makes me really happy to be here!"
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THE MAYN MAN
Posted on: Thu 17 Jan 2008
Wigan Athletic manager Steve Bruce has signed Honduran international left-back Maynor Figueroa, subject to international clearance.
The 24 year old joins on loan until the end of the season from Deportivo Olimpia, the same club from which Latics have just signed Wilson Palacios.
Figueroa has been on trial at the JJB Stadium for three weeks and manager Steve Bruce says he has been impressed with him: "He's strong, he's quick, he has a superb left foot and I think he has the attributes to adapt to the English game.
"He's shown his desire to be with us by being away from his family all over Christmas and has shown plenty of potential in training."
Bruce revealed that there were other clubs in the hunt for the left back, and he is naturally delighted he has picked Wigan Athletic.
"It's always a nervous time when you make a proposal to a player and you know he has a choice of clubs, but he has committed to himself to us, which is pleasing."
Figueroa, who has played 47 times for his country, has been granted a work permit to play in this country.
He said: "I have always had an ambition to play in England and now I have a chance to prove myself in what I consider to be the best league in the world. I am excited by the challenge."
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| BRUCE SIGNS OLD PAL'
Posted on: Fri 11 Jan 2008
'Magician' Wilson Palacios becomes first Steve Bruce signing.
Wigan Athletic are delighted to announce the signature of Wilson Palacios from Honduran Club Deportivo Olimpia.
The 23 year-old has passed a medical and put pen to paper on a three and a half year deal, for an undisclosed fee. He has received international clearance to play against Derby County tomorrow, and been granted a work permit. He has travelled with the rest of the squad this afternoon
The Honduran International midfielder, who has played 42 times for his country, has been on loan at Birmingham City this season, and played six times in the Barclays Premier League. That loan expired on January 2nd.
Palacios Against Wigan's Denny Landzaat
Palacios was initially recommended to Steve Bruce whilst he was at Birmingham by Arsenal manager Arsène Wenger. In his native Honduras, he is known as The Magician or Harry Potter, due to his skills on the ball, and Bruce is in no doubt about his potential. In the past, he has likened him to a young Paul Ince, and said: "I have stated from the day that I walked into the club that we would only bring in players who would improve the squad, and offer something different.
"I know Wilson well and I have seen what he can do. He has great strength and vision, he can pass a ball with either foot and he has had some time to adjust to the rigour of the English Premier League and knows what our game is all about.
"I know that the Wigan supporters will warm to him because he's a real 100 per-center, he gives everything to the cause and I am looking forward to welcoming him into our team."
Palacios said: "I am really happy to sign for Wigan. I like Steve as a manager and I think it is an ambitious club that is going places.
"I can't wait to get started now. When the loan finished at Birmingham, Wigan were the first to come in and make me an offer and now I want to focus everything on doing my best here.
"I would like to thank Birmingham for all they did for me over the past few months, they have been very supportive of me at a very difficult time for me and my family. But now I need to concentrate totally on football again and I am grateful to Steve and for Wigan for giving me that chance."
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BRAMBLE PRAISES TEAM EFFORT
Posted on: Thu 03 Jan 2008
Ipswich-born defender Titus Bramble was typically modest after the 1-1 draw with Liverpool on Wednesday night after his goal earned Latics a point against one of the "big four" sides for the very first time.
"That's not really my job, my job is to defend" said Bramble
"I was lucky to get us a goal and to get us a point.
"To be honest though it's probably the best goal I've ever scored so I'm absolutely delighted."
Titus paid tribute to a complete team performance and especially the great strength that the side showed to come back from a goal down.
"All the way through the team we did a very professional job and we showed tremendous character to come back after Torres' goal early in the second half.
"It's a credit to what the manager's done since he came in, he's made us a harder team to beat and he's given us a lot of belief.
"Maybe a couple of months ago if we'd have gone a goal down we didn't believe we could have come back but to come here and get a point from goal down is terrific."
Titus however won't get the chance to score in three consecutive games after collecting his fifth yellow of the season against Aston Villa. He now misses Saturday's FA Cup third round tie at Sunderland.
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| THINK SPINK
Posted on: Fri 04 Jan 2008
Wigan Athletic are delighted to announce Nigel Spink as their new goalkeeping coach, who joins from Birmingham City.
Spink brings with him a wealth of experience and is someone whose expertise Steve Bruce rates extremely highly.
"Nigel is a superb coach," he said, "a top lad and is someone I know very well having worked with him so closely at Birmingham.
"He has seen it and done it all as far as football goes and I am delighted to have him on board.
"I am sure Chris Kirkland, Mike Pollitt and Carlo Nash, along with the younger keepers at the club, will benefit hugely from having him on board because he is one of the best around and is another fantastic addition to my backroom staff."
The Chelmsford-born 49 year old enjoyed a playing career that spanned over 30 years. He originally started at West ham United but it was at Aston Villa that he made his name, coming on as a virtual rookie in the 1982 European Cup Final against Bayern Munich after injury to Jimmy Rimmer, and keeping a clean sheet in a 1-0 win.
The Villain: Spink in action in 93/94 season
He went onto play 460 times for Aston Villa, eventually moving to West Bromwich Albion and Millwall and playing on until the age of 39. He also has an England cap and two England B Caps. He has been coaching for the past decade or so at West Brom and at Birmingham. He also had a brief spell in management at Forest Green Rovers.
Spink said: "I'm looking forward to the challenge ahead. There are three top class keepers at the club and I'm told some really promising youngsters.
"Of course I know Steve Bruce, Eric Black and Keith Bertschin very well and I just can't wait to get started. There's a lot of hard work ahead the potential in the squad is immense."
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DAVE GALLEY BECOMES NEW HEAD PHYSIOTHERAPIST
Posted on: Mon 24 Dec 2007
The Stoke-on-Trent born 45 year-old has a wealth of experience from his time at Liverpool, England Under 21s and Under 18s, as well as working in the Premiership and the Football League with Port Vale, Fulham, Luton Town, Sheffield Wednesday, Derby County, and until recently, Bolton Wanderers.
Latics manager Steve Bruce welcomed the appointment and said: "We are fortunate that someone of Dave's ability and experience has become available, and as far as I'm concerned, this is another crucial appointment to my backroom staff.
"Dave has seen it all as far as working within football, he has been at clubs throughout the divisions, and was at Liverpool when they won the Champions League, and with the England Under 18s when they won the UEFA Championships.
Dave Galley From His Liverpool Days
"Most importantly he understands footballers, and has been treating football injuries for over 25 years. This is a tremendous appointment for us."
Galley, who also is a partner in a sports clinic in Chester, turned to the medical side when his own career at Port Vale was cut short by a bad knee injury at the age of 18.
Dave will lead the team comprising physiotherapists Alex Cribley and Neil Fitzhenry, and First Team Masseur Dave Hallam.
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| BENT PLEASED WITH HAT-TRICK
Posted on: Tue 18 Dec 2007
Marcus Bent inspired Latics to a brilliant 5-3 win against Blackburn last weekend with his first hat-trick in the top flight.
Latics took a three goal lead, but were pegged back by the visitors who scored a hat-trick themselves through Roque Santa Cruz, but Bent's goals along with Denny Landzaat and Paul Scharner earned Wigan the win.
The 29-year old has now netted six goals for the club since he arrived from Charlton Athletic and is looking forward to delivering some more goals in the weeks ahead.
Marcus said after the match, "I am very happy with a hat-trick, and I managed to get the ball too. We were cruising until they got a late goal in the first half, but we went in at half being confident after we were two goals up.
"Blackburn came back into it, but we showed good grit and composure to get back into the game and win it.
"It was a great game. It had ups and downs, it had thrills and spills, yellow and red cards, it was a good game and it was something we had been looking forward to for a number of weeks now.
"It's my first hat-trick in the Premiership but Blackburn are very close to my heart as I got promoted with them and they gave me a chance so I am not going to shout about it too much in their face.
"I am just pleased that we got three points and that we are getting our confidence back. It's great if everyone else becomes more confident because then it means they can create chances for me.
"But every game is important and so is every point we pick up, be it one point or three."
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STEVE BRUCE PHOTO SPECIAL
Posted on: Tue 27 Nov 2007
The New Boss Takes His First Full Session......a photo exclusive
WALL TOGETHER - Steve Bruce shares some thoughts with Frank Barlow
RUN TO YOU - Bruce does some fitness work ahead of training
HE'S COTT IT - Steve Bruce gets in the thick of it with David Cotterill
DRAGON'S DEN - The new Gaffer shares a joke with Denny Landzaat
HAVING A BALL - Steve Bruce said he enjoyed his first session
THE SWEEDEST THING - Steve Bruce observes Andreas Granqvist
KILLER TOUCH - Steve Bruce forces Kevin Kilbane into a hasty pass!
LAST ORDER - Steve Bruce puts a stop to his first session
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| THE THREE B'S
Posted on: Thu 29 Nov 2007
Eric Black and Keith Bertschin join Steve Bruce at the JJB. Frank Barlow stays on.
Steve Bruce has made his first appointments as manager in the shape of Assistant Manager Eric Black and Reserve Team Manager Keith Bertschin, both of whom arrive from Birmingham City.
It has also been confirmed that former Assistant Manager and Caretaker Manager Frank Barlow will remain at the club as part of Bruce's management team, in the role of First Team Coach.
Former coach Mark Seagraves has left the staff, and has been announced on the staff at Derby County.
Black, 44, was previously a manager with Coventry and Motherwell, and was also assistant manager at Celtic. As a player he won the European Cup Winners Cup under Sir Alex Ferguson at Aberdeen, scoring the opening goal in a 2-1 win over Real Madrid in 1983.
He scored 70 goals from 150 starts for The Dons before earning a move to France with Metz but having scored 26 goals in 85 appearances, was unfortunately forced to retire prematurely with a persistent back problem. He played twice for Scotland.
He was then on the coaching staff at Celtic where he was assistant to Josef Venglos before taking his first job in management at Motherwell in 2001. He then moved to Coventry as assistant to his former Aberdeen team mate Gordon Strachan, and succeeded him briefly as manager in 2003 before joining Bruce at Birmingham.
Reserve Team Coach Keith Betschin was at Birmingham throughout Steve Bruce's time at St Andrews. He started as a player at non-league Barnet, before enjoying a fine career as a prolific striker in the late 70s and throughout the 1980s and early 1990s.
He scored 111 career league goals in 462 appearances for Ipswich Town, Birmingham City, Norwich City, Norwich City, Stoke City, Sunderland, Walsall, Chester City and Aldershot Town. He also played in the USA for a time and actually carried on at non-league level until the age of 43, including spells at Stafford Town, Barry Town, Worcester City, Hednesford Town and Tamworth.
Steve Bruce said: "Every manager needs a team around him, and in Eric, Keith and Frank, I have got three highly experienced football people that I know and trust completely.
"They know the game inside out and are fantastic additions to my dressing room. I am absolutely delighted everything has been resolved now as regards the first team coaching set-up, and we can now settle down into a routine and move on.
"I would also like to put on record my thanks to Mark Seagraves for alll he has done for Wigan Athletic."
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STEVE BRUCE - WORK BEGINS
Posted on: Mon 26 Nov 2007
A New era begins as Steve Bruce meets the players and takes charge of his first training session. Keep coming back to the Wigan Athletic's Official Club website as we take you through the events of an historic day as they unfold
Having signed his contract on Friday, new Wigan Athletic manager Steve Bruce was at his desk at the Christopher Park Training Ground this morning, and took his first training session with the players before being unveiled to the media this afternoon.
"I can't wait to start now," he said, "we've got a fantastic squad of players here that I know are good enough to stay in the Premier League. Now we've got to go out and prove it."
STAY LOGGED IN TO WIGAN WORLD TODAY FOR PHOTOS OF STEVE'S FIRST TRAINING SESSION AND THE EXCLUSIVE FIRST INTERVIEW ON WIGAN WORLD WHERE YOU CAN GET A SEVEN DAY TRIAL FOR 99p.
Bruce briefly met the players at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday before greeting them all this morning and taking them for his first training session.
Speaking exclusively to the official club website, he said: "I am really looking forward to the challenges ahead.
"It was good to meet the players on Saturday at Arsenal and I thought the team worked really hard on the day and were a little unlucky but that is the way it goes against team of the quality of Arsenal.
"We clearly need to guard against that and to become hard to beat. I have already identified some areas where I think we can improve, but generally I will say that having studied the squad, there are some fantastic players at this football club and as a group, they should be doing far better than they are.
"That's my job to start putting that right, that's why I have been brought in and the first priority of course. As far as I am concerned, everyone starts from scratch from today, I will judge every player on how they perform for me on the training ground. I am the type of person who takes people as I find them and that is the message I have told the players. Go and show me what you can do."
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| BRUCE CAN BE WIGAN LEGEND - WHELAN
Posted on: Fri 23 Nov 2007
Latics Chairman Dave Whelan hails Steve Bruce signing as a major coup for the club
Dave Whelan has said appointing Steve Bruce manager could prove to be one of the most significant moments in club history.
Mr Whelan apologised to the club's supporters after the delay in the announcement this week, but said, "it was worth the wait. Not only is this the man to keep us in the Premier League, this is the man to take us to the next level!"
Bruce will formally take charge of the team as of Monday morning and the Chairman has hailed him as one of the best managers in the country.
"We moved heaven and earth to get Steve once it became clear he might be available," said Whelan, "because he is a manager who could walk into any Premier League club and make an impression. He has that sort of personality.
"He is a magnificent man-manager. A leader of men. As a player, he was the type to run through brick walls for his team, a leader by example first and foremost who captained one of the biggest clubs in the world quite magnificently for a number of seasons.
"He has carried that authority into management and having worked at this level for several seasons knows all about the rigours of the Premier League. He is used to handling pressure, and is inspired by it. That is the sort of leader we need now and into the future.
"He knows football inside out, he understands what makes top players tick and how to motivate them. He is a man steeped in all the best traditions of football, but he is also a thoroughly modern manager, who understands how the game has gone in recent years.
"I have absolutely no hesitation in handing Steve the control of the team. It is in highly capable hands. He is the man who will not only keep this club in the Premier league this season, but continue the work of Paul Jewell and Chris Hutchings in building a legacy for the future. I want him to become a Wigan legend.
"Paul Jewell did a magnificent job for this club in his time here, as did Chris Hutchings. I thank both because I know that without them, we probably wouldn't be in this position in the first place.
"But now, we have a new man in charge. A man I know and respect personally, but who also comes very highly recommended by some very major figures in the game.
"I think Steve is going to be a huge success at Wigan. Like myself, he believes in hard work first and foremost, which is a quality that all Wigan people respect above all else. Make no mistake, we have got ourselves a top, top, man."
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STATEMENT FROM THE CHAIRMAN
Wigan Athletic Chairman Dave Whelan explains the reasons behind Chris Hutchings' departure from the club and issues message to Frank Barlow and Mark Seagraves.
Wigan Athletic Chairman Dave Whelan has made the following statement after the departure from the club of manager Chris Hutchings this morning.
"This has been a very difficult decision for me and the Board to make but I felt we had to act in the best interests of the football club and its long-term future.
"Having been so close to the team and such a big part of the success, I felt Chris deserved to be given the chance to take over as Number One last summer and receive full backing from myself and the Board to shape the team as he wished.
"Chris has worked very hard since becoming manager and I cannot fault his effort and commitment to the cause. However, it is crucial for the development of Wigan Athletic that we maintain our Premier League status this season and following results and performances in recent matches, we feel it is critical to act now.
"My energies will now be fully focused on getting the right man, firstly to stop the decline we have suffered in the last two months or so, and secondly, to take us forward in the future.
"This search will be exhaustive and I will not be commenting on any names or speculation until I have found the man I want."
And Mr Whelan has added these words of encouragement for new caretaker boss Frank Barlow and coach Mark Seagraves.
"I have absolute faith that Frank is the right man to lead us in the short term. His knowledge of football after 40 years in the game is second to none, and I warmed to him as a person the instant he walked into the club. Mark Seagraves is another I have a lot of time for and I have no doubt that together, they will prepare the team professionally."
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| | CLUB STATEMENT FROM CHIEF EXECUTIVE
Posted on: Mon 05 Nov 2007
Brenda Spencer, Wigan Athletic Chief Executive, issues a statement on behalf of the club on the subject of Chris Hutchings.
"First of all, I'd like to put on record, the thanks of everyone at the club, the board of directors, myself and all my staff, and the Chairman, for the absolutely marvellous contribution Chris Hutchings has made to the Wigan Athletic story over the past six and half seasons.
"It is always a very sad time when you have to part company with someone you have shared a close working relationship with, especially, when that person is as honest, hardworking and committed as Chris has been during his time here. We're losing a friend as well as a colleague.
"However, the chairman and the board of directors have made the decision for what they consider to be in the best long-term interests of Wigan Athletic. The priority of everyone associated with Wigan Athletic is to keep the club in the Barclays Premier League. We worked so hard to get here, and remain here for three seasons, and it is of paramount importance to stay here.
"We will not at this stage be drawn into any speculation as to the possible identity of the new manager. Assistant Manager Frank Barlow will take temporary charge of the team with immediate effect, assisted by Mark Seagraves. Both are highly experienced coaches and know the squad well. The Chairman, The Board and I have every faith they will do a good job.
"As a football club, Wigan Athletic will continue to improve and grow into the future, and I am confident that we will soon start picking up points again and start moving in the right direction."
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CLUB ANNOUNCE HUTCHINGS DEPARTURE
Posted on: Mon 05 Nov 2007
Wigan Athletic have announced this morning that they have parted company with manager Chris Hutchings with immediate effect.
Assistant Manager Frank Barlow will be taking charge of the first team on a caretaker basis, starting with next Sunday's trip to Tottenham Hotspur at White Hart Lane.
The club wish to put on record their immense gratitude for Chris' efforts, in particular his contribution to the meteoric rise of Wigan Athletic over the past six and a half seasons.
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| GAFFER: 'TIME TO GET TOUGH'
Posted on: Fri 02 Nov 2007
WIGAN ATHLETIC V CHELSEA
Saturday 3rd November
Kick off 3.00pm
Latics manager Chris Hutchings has issued a war cry prior to the big match against Chelsea tomorrow: "let's put our bodies on the line and make sure they know they've been in a game."
Hutchings began his career as a player at Stamford Bridge, and says to manage against his old club a lot.
CHELSEA DAYS: Hutch at 'the Bridge'
"Chelsea never leaves you once you've played there, and it was a big part of my early life in football," he says,
"But that's all in the past. All that interests me now is what happens at Wigan Athletic, starting on Saturday against Chelsea.
"The two matches we have had against them at the JJB over the past two years have been amazing occasions, and we have only been undone with last gasp goals on both occasions.
"That is the spirit I want to see tomorrow. The first target for the game is to reach that same level of commitment and make sure that we match them physically. But it can't just be all gung-ho.
"We need our aggression to be controlled and not to be rash in the tackle. Chelsea are a class side, there's no doubt about that, and a lot of the planning when you face teams of that ilk is setting out a plan of how to deal with their quality.
"But at the same time, if there's one thing I have learned during my time in the Premier League, it is not to pay too much respect to the opposition. You have to try and impose yourself and your game, no matter who you are facing. And that will be no different against Chelsea.
"We have trained all week in a really positive frame of mind. And there is only one thing we are focused on as a group of men: to get something against Chelsea."
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| | | | | | | | | | Heskey Receives Supporters Club Recognition
There was a nice moment for Emile Heskey before the Liverpool game on Saturday as he received a memento for becoming Wigan's first full England International player.
Emile, who is well on the road to recovery following his foot injury sustained after just nine minutes of the Fulham game, received a rapturous reception from the both Wigan and Liverpool fans as he received a framed England No. 9 and Wigan No. 9 shirt |  |
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  Northern Sal
Cameroon international left back Salomon Olembe makes it a perfect ten for Chris Hutchings
Wigan Athletic have signed Cameroon international left-sided defender Salomon Olembe, subject to international clearance and approval from the Premier League Board to register a player outside the transfer window.
The 26 year-old was a free agent after finishing his contract at French giants Marseille in June and Latics have moved quickly to sign him ahead of several other clubs. He has signed a one year deal initially.
Olembe, who has 60 caps for Cameroon and has appeared in the World Cup for his nation, had a season with Leeds United in the 2003-04 season, and has won the French title as well as playing in the UEFA Cup.
Nicknamed 'Little Daddy' at Marseilles, Olembe is a dynamic style of full-back, who is extremely quick and has a powerful left foot shot. He has also played in a holding role and Hutchings said he is delighted to have filled 'the last piece of the jigsaw'
Latics manager Chris Hutchings said: "Salomon is an experienced campaigner, who's played at the highest level. We've had our eye on him for quite a while, and like all our signings, we have done a lot of research on him.
"He knows what the demands of the Premier League are and he can speak the language, which is important. You need to be able to adapt to the demands of the English game, and I'm confident that he will fit the bill.
"He's a clever player, he's got pace, a great left peg and is strong in the tackle."
Hutchings added: "We were working right up until the transfer window to try and get a left back to the club but one of two players didn't work out, for various reasons. But we didn't panic because we knew the Salomon deal could happen after the window closed and I'm confident now that we can keep progressing."
Salomon, a former team mate of Antoine Sibierski at French club Nantes, will now be available for the match against Fulham on September 15 following the suspension of Kevin Kilbane, but Hutchings was at pains to point out that Olembe will faces stiff competition when Kilbane is available again.
"I thought Kevin was very unlucky to be sent off at Newcastle," said Hutchings, "and to be fair to him, he has done brilliantly for us this season and shown me that he has the ability to fill the left back position. There is good competition in every position now, which is exactly what I wanted to achieve from the summer's business."
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 | Give it up for Bent
Striker Marcus Bent is the latest to join Hutchings revolution
the 9th signing of the Chris Hutchings era.
The 29 year old was in Wigan last night to sign the contract, and club officials worked late to complete the formalities. Bent will train with the squad this morning, Friday.
He joins Titus Bramble, Mario Melchiot, Antoine Sibierski, Jason Koumas, Andreas Granqvist, Carlo Nash, Michael Brown - and yesterday's new arrival Rachid Bouaouzan - as Hutchings looks to build a new squad for the future.
Bent has extensive Premier League experience, having appeared in the top flight at Blackburn Rovers, Ipswich Town, Leicester City, Everton and Charlton, and is two matches short of 400 career league appearances, scoring 82 goals.
Hutchings said he was delighted to have netted another experienced striker
"It's a great deal," said Hutchings, "We've got him on loan, which is a convenient arrangement for us.
"Marcus has played the majority of his career in the top flight, he's been there and done it, and knows how to look after himself at this level.
"He is a clever player who can fulfill a number of roles and whose game is far more than just about scoring. He's lively and brings others into play. He's a street-wise sort of player, who never gives any less than 100% and is one of those lads you want on your side.
"I've always said that I'll only bring in players who I think will add a new dimension to the squad and I think Marcus fits the bill. I'm looking forward to working with him."
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Latics go Dutch - again!
Rachid Bouaouzan becomes Chris Hutchings' eighth signing of the summer!
Wigan Athletic have won the race to sign winger Rachid Bouaouzan from Sparta Rotterdam, for an undisclosed fee.
The 23 year-old was in Wigan yesterday to undergo a medical and complete the paper-work on a three year contract at the JJB Stadium, before flying back to Holland. He will return back to England tonight and start his first training session with his new team mates on Friday morning.
Described as a very quick and dangerous winger who can play on either flank, he has been with Sparta since the age of 10 and come through the ranks of his home town club. The Dutchman, of Moroccan descent, has appeared 71 times in the Dutch Eredivisie, scoring five goals
Latics manager Chris Hutchings revealed that it was the club's two other Dutchmen, Mario Melchiot and Denny Landzaat, who played a major role in persuading their countryman in joining them at the JJB.
"It's very useful to have a couple of Dutch lads here already," he said, "and they came into the club on their day off to speak to Rachid about us, which I was very grateful for."
Hutchings is convinced Bouaouzan is a player who has the attributes to adjust to the Premier League.
"I know that he has been chased by several clubs," he said, "so I am delighted he has chosen to join us. I think that he has bags of potential and exactly what it takes to be a success in this country. It may take time for him to adjust completely and the most important thing is that he is another good young player who will add competition to the squad."
"He's very quick, has got two good feet and can play on either wing. He has come highly recommended from several sources and as soon as we found out he might be available, we were very keen to get him on board." Bouaouzan Set for Ewood Debut
Posted on: Mon 03 Sep 2007
Latics winger, Rachid Bouaouzan, is set to play in tonight's reserve team match at Ewood Park, kick off 7.00pm.
Bouaouzan and the team will be facing a relatively strong Blackburn Rovers side in a game that has been switch from Morecambe's ground so that that manager Mark Hughes can run his eye over some of his fringe players.
The Dutchman joined Latics ahead of Friday's transfer deadline along with Charlton striker Marcus Bent and is an exciting prospect given that he can play right across the midfield and has plenty of pace, and will provide the manager with a lot of tactical options.
"People tell me that I'm fast", Said Boua
"I like to play everywhere in the front line, one of the wingers, and I'm left and right footed."
Rachid travelled to Newcaslte on Friday having stepped off the plane just hours earlier and is looking forward to getting his first chance to play Premier League football.
|  |  | Brown makes it a magnificent seven for Chris Hutchings
Wigan Athletic have signed the Fulham captain Michael Brown, for an undisclosed sum.
The 30 year-old travelled to Wigan this morning (Tuesday) to complete his medical, and put pen to paper on a three year deal at the JJB Stadium, and he could make his debut in tonight's friendly against Barnsley at Oakwell.
Brown becomes Chris Hutchings' seventh signing of the summer after Titus Bramble, Antoine Sibierski, Mario Melchiot, Andreas Granqvist, Carlo Nash and Jason Koumas.
Hutchings is delighted to have netted his man.
"Like all of our signings," he said, "we have done extensive research on the player and I feel he is someone who brings something new to the table. We have worked really hard behind the scenes to make this one happen because I believe he will make a big difference to the side and I am really happy Michael has agreed to join us.
"He has huge Premier League experience and is an all-action player who can play a number of roles in the middle of the park. He is a totally committed midfielder, who never gives anything less than 100% to the cause and strengthens competition in those midfield areas even further.
"He has been a real fan's favourite everywhere he has gone and I'm sure it will be no different here."
Hutchings added: "Now the search goes on for more new blood, I still feel we need to add to the squad and we are optimistic that we can make further announcements, hopefully, sooner rather than later."
Hartlepool-born Brown came through the ranks at Manchester City and made his debut, in the Premiership, at the age of 18. He went onto play 109 times for City before moving to Sheffield United, where he won the Fans' Player of The Year title twice, played 181 times and scored 36 times.
His reputation as a goal-scoring midfielder earned him a move to Tottenham, where he played 64 times before crossing London to Craven Cottage, and settling into a more defensive role.
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| | | | | Site designed by  | | | | |  | This is the Wigan Athletic 3rd Kit Wigan Athletic will play in their new third kit for the first time this evening (19th July) as they face Dutch side Den Bosch in their second pre-season friendly.
Exclusively previewed here, the new kit, manufactured by Umbro, consists of flint shirt, shorts and socks with blue trim and will be available for supporters to buy in September. | |
| | | | | | This is the Wigan Athletic New Away Kit. Wigan Athletic will play in their new away kit for the first time tonight (17th July), in the pre-season friendly against Dutch side FC Zwolle.
Previewed here, the new kit, manufactured by Umbro, consists of white shirt, flint-coloured shorts and socks and will be available to purchase before the start of the new season and the big kick off at Everton on August 11th. |  |
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| | | | | Koumas to take No 10
Jason Koumas - the first training pictures!! Jase takes No10 shirt!
Come in Number 10, or is it number 21? No, it is Number 10, this picture was taken yesterday!
Jason Koumas joined in with training for the first time yesterday, and declared himself satisfied with a good day's work.
He has been handed the Number 10 shirt vacated by Lee McCulloch this morning, and said he's now just looking forward to training, and getting ready for the new season.
"It was a bit tough," said Koumas, "my first day back and training in new surroundings with new team mates, but I'm so happy to be here and now I can't wait to get to know everyone a lot better and to get down to the serious business of getting ready for the season.
I'm glad the move has been sorted out at this stage because it means I can have a decent pre-season with the lads and be ready to hit the ground running when we go to Everton on August 14th
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| | | | |  | Jason Koumas becomes 6th summer signing for Chris Hutchings
Wigan Athletic have won the race to sign the exciting Wales international playmaker Jason Koumas from West Bromwich Albion for an undisclosed fee, who joins Titus Bramble, Antoine Sibierski, Mario Melchiot, Andreas Granqvist and Carlo Nash at the club, becoming manager Chris Hutchings' 6th signing since taking over.
Right: Koumas, the first picture, Jason shakes on it with his new Gaffer Chris Hutchings prior to signing his deal at the JJB Stadium this morning |
| | | | | | This is the Wigan Athletic New Kit. Wigan Athletic reveal new strip for 2007-08 season -
Modelled here by Latics stars Ryan Taylor and Emmerson Boyce,
the shirt will be released for sale on Thursday 14th June at a VIP launch night at the JJB Sports store at Robin Park in Wigan.
Shirt prices will be £25.00 for Juniors and £35.00 for Adults In another development, it is the first time the kit will be manufactured by leading sportswear manufacturer Umbro.
Brenda Spencer, Wigan Athletic Chief Executive, said: "The kit is really striking. We have reverted to the highly popular vertical blue and white stripes which proved such a hit in our first Premiership season, complemented by blue shorts and white socks and I'm sure it will prove to be really popular with the fans." |  |
| | | | |  | Latics Second New signing
New Wigan Athletic signing Antoine Sibierski said Wigan
Athletic manager Chris Hutchings convinced him to choose
Latics over other Premiership clubs, and that he can't wait to
meet his new team mates and get to work.
The Frenchman was introduced to the media at the JJB Stadium
this morning (Tuesday) and said how delighted he was to be
joining the club.
Pictured right, Antoine Sibierski, with the new Wigan Athletic
2007-08 Home Shirt, is pictured at the JJB Stadium
"The manager told me about the club's ambition and that
impressed me a lot," said Sibierski, "I have followed the
club's progress over the past few seasons and you can't help
but be impressed with the strides being made here.
Sibierski has signed a two year deal at the JJB Stadium, and
realises that there will be competition for places.
"You need to have players competing for the shirt, that is the
nature of football at this level and it will be no different
here than anywhere else. No one can expect to walk into the
team but I want to do my best and I'm convinced that the team
will do well next season.
"When you look at the players that are already here, and the
plans the manager has for the future, this is clearly a club
with a big desire to progress and do well, and that matches
the way I think as well."
Sibierski said he was sad to be leaving a club like Newcastle,
and he thanked the Geordie fans for their support: "It was a
great club to be at the people up there really know their
football. I thank everyone for the way they treated me but now
there's a new chapter in my career and I want to repay the
faith the manager has shown in me and give everything for
Wigan Athletic."
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| | | | | Latics First New signing Wigan Athletic signing Titus Bramble has said that he is
delighted to sign for the club: 'As soon as I spoke to the
manager my mind was made up.'
Titus Bramble has said that he is really looking forward to
the challenge at Wigan Athletic, and that he can't wait to
meet his new team mates.
'This is a really exciting move for me," he told Wigan
Athletic.tv, "and I'm delighted my future is sorted and I can
look forward to next season.
"As soon as I met Chris Hutchings I knew I wanted to sign for
Wigan Athletic. This is a really forward thinking club with
big ambitions. He made it clear that he wanted me and that
felt great. When I spoke to other players about Wigan and
Chris Hutchings they only had good things to say. His
reputation as a coach who improves and develops players is
excellent. Other clubs did approach me but I know this is the
right move at the right time of my career.
"I'm still only 25 years old and have a lot to learn. I'm a
big believer that you never stop learning in this game and I'm
looking forward to improving as a player at Wigan. I have a
lot of top flight and European experience already but I'm
hungry for more, to do more and at Wigan I'm going to have
that opportunity.
"I have no regrets about my time at Newcastle! It is a
tremendous club with brilliant fans and I thank everyone there
for the help and support they gave me while I was there. This
is a new challenge and I can't wait for pre season training to
begin." http://www.orbitdownloader.com/download.htm |  |
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