Wigan Athletic Football Club

• Nickname:Latics
• Founded:1932
• Manager:Roberto Martinez

• Ground:JJB Stadium
• Capacity:25000

Baines backs Latics boss

21 May 2007 - 11:02:31

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Newly-crowned Wigan Athletic player of the year Leighton Baines has endorsed the appointment of Chris Hutchings as Latics manager.

Hutchings was handed the reins last week following Paul Jewell's decision to take time out and the club's former assistant manager is the ideal man for the job, according to Baines.

"Everyone in the dressing room was shocked when Paul Jewell decided to go," the England Under-21 international told the club's official website.

"I for one owe him an awful lot because it is him who gave me my debut and has helped me establish myself.

"But it is also very good for continuity that Chris is now the new gaffer.

"He knows us all and it won't disrupt the dressing room during the summer, wondering who is going to come in.

"He is a great coach and I've no doubt that he has what it takes to make it in management. All the team are behind him."

Speaking about the player of the season accolade, the 22-year-old added: "To win at my age really is a big honour and I want to thank the fans for the way they have supported me.

"To get the player's player vote is also a terrific honour because it is voted for by all my team-mates."