Former Portsmouth boss Paul Cook quits Wigan

Following three seasons in charge, the 53-year-old has today officially quit the financially-stricken club.

He will now seek a managerial job in the Championship, with Bristol City a potential destination.

Cook walked out on Fratton Park for Wigan in May 2017 – just weeks after claiming the League Two title.

He rejected an improved Blues deal to make the move to the DW Stadium, with Pompey receiving compensation.

Cook subsequently won the League One title with the Latics and led them to Championship finishes of 18th and 13th.

However, they were relegated at the end of the 2019-20 season following a 12-point deduction for entering administration on July 1.

In a statement, he said: ‘It is with a heavy heart that I have decided to leave Wigan Athletic.

‘I would like to thank David Sharpe, the Whelan family and Jonathan Jackson for giving me the opportunity to manage such a great club three years ago.

‘I have been immensely proud to have continued my long affiliation with Wigan Athletic over the past three years, and I have worked hard to represent the club to the best of my ability, to develop individuals and also create a team and a work ethic which the town can be proud of.

‘I have enjoyed some amazing moments with you during that time that will live long in the memory.

‘It is well publicised that the club is going through an incredibly challenging period and, of course, we are all hoping a positive outcome can be found so this football club can write its next chapter under new ownership.

‘That has to be the main priority for everyone involved and I know the administrators are working hard to ensure the club can get through these difficult times and find new owners.

‘I want to thank every player for their efforts, hard work and commitment during my three years as manager.

‘I would like to thank my assistant Leam Richardson and, as a collective, I thank all of my support staff and the staff behind the scenes who are so pivotal to the football club.

‘We must also not forget the 75 people who unfortunately lost their jobs a few weeks ago, and I hope for those people that the club can find a positive solution and move forwards in the near future.

‘To the supporters, who are the most important part of this club’s present and future, I would like to thank you all for your support over the last three years.

‘More than ever, I have been overwhelmed by your support to myself, the players and the staff over the past few weeks.

‘Whoever leads this club in the future will be welcomed by a fantastic group of supporters.’

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