Former Portsmouth and Wigan boss Paul Cook's offers services to Asda - only to be rejected

Cook’s Wigan haven’t been in action for almost two months since their goalless draw against Luton on March 7 amid the coronavirus crisis.

To occupy his time, the 53-year-old has tried to serve the local community in his native Liverpool.

But Cook, who led Pompey to the League Two title three years ago before making a shock move to the DW Stadium 25 days later, admitted his services weren't required.

Speaking to Sky Sports News, he said: ‘I’ve actually applied for a couple of jobs but I’ve been knocked back with them all, to be honest.

‘Which is quite worrying in the football world because if I come out of my present job, the likelihood of me getting quick employment doesn’t seem to be good!

‘Like everybody, you just want to help, in general for people in and around the community it was good to try to help out.

‘I tried to get into the local Asda to see if they wanted any delivery guys but unfortunately I didn’t meet the criteria.’

Wigan are currently locked in a battle to preserve their Championship status.

They sit 20th in the table but only two points above the relegation zone with nine games remaining.

Although the EFL has underlined its determination to finish the campaign, Fratton Park chief executive Mark Catlin fears the extent of the logistical issues may put paid to Pompey’s promotion.

Should England follow France and Holland who have both ended their respective seasons, a conclusion on finishing positions would need to be reached.

One option would be for current league positions to stand – but Cooks believes that would be harsh.

He added: ‘It’s so difficult. Look at Charlton Athletic – they’ve been in the relegation zone for 20 minutes during the whole campaign, having just dropped in there.

‘Yet if people deem the league position should stand, they would be in the bottom three.

‘With nine games still to go, the difficulties for the authorities and the people who run the game are huge.

‘Looking at previous years, there’s always one team that makes a late run for the play-offs, or escapes from relegation on the last day with a late goal – and that’s what makes this time of year so exciting for football.’