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 MegsonÂ’s 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 I’ve 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.”
