GRAEME SOUNESS is set to be the next Wigan boss after the
sacking of Chris Hutchings. A statement by the club meant Hutchings
became the fourth managerial casualty in the Premier League this
season after six straight losses culminated in the 2-0 defeat
against Chelsea on Saturday.
Hutchings was informed of the decision straight after the game, but
begged chairman Dave Whelan to delay making the announcement public
so that he could tell staff yesterday morning. It means once again
his tenure of a top-flight team has lasted exactly 12 games, as
today marks the seventh anniversary of his early removal from the
hot seat at Bradford, at what is rapidly turning into a bad time of
year for the former Chelsea player.
However, with the Latics chief a firm believer in British
managers, Souness leapt to the top of his wish-list with Chris
Coleman and Stuart Pearce completing the Great Britain interest
among the rest of the candidates although with Souness telling
friends that he is interested in a move to the JJB, some bookmakers
suspended betting last night.
Souness has been out of work since being sacked by Newcastle but is
keen for a return and had hoped to move in down the road at Bolton
when Sammy Lee was fired. He removed himself from the running when
he discovered that one of Gary Megsons closest friends is Mark
Curtis, who was involved in the appointment process.
Wigan fans themselves are keen to see a return by Paul Jewell, who
chose to leave in the summer saying he needed a break. But it is
doubtful he would be interested in stepping back into the shoes so
recently vacated by his former No 2. When I was given the chance
to manage this club I had no hesitation, said Hutchings. I
believe Ive assembled an excellent bunch of players, a superb
squad of professionals, and I still firmly believe that over time
they will prove their worth and push this club to the next
level.
My only regret is that I will not be here to see that progression
reach its summit.
