Wigan Athletic
Full name	Wigan Athletic Football Club
Nickname(s)	The Latics
Founded	1932
Ground	JJB Stadium Wigan Greater Manchester England, United Kingdom (Capacity 25,138[1])
Chairman	David Whelan
Team Manager	Steve Bruce
League	Premier League
2006–07	Premier League, 17th
Home colours Away colours

Wigan Athletic Football Club is a professional football team based in Wigan, Greater Manchester, England. Image File history File links Size of this preview: 563 × 599 pixelsFull resolution (577 × 614 pixel, file size: 118 KB, MIME type: image/png) obtained from http://www. ... The JJB Stadium is a sports stadium located within the Robin Park Complex in Newtown, Wigan, Greater Manchester. ... , Wigan is a town in Greater Manchester, England. ... Greater Manchester is a metropolitan county in North West England which has a population of 2. ... For other uses, see England (disambiguation). ... Rungnado May Day Stadium is the worlds largest football stadium. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_England. ... David Whelan born in Bradford on 24 November 1936, is a former professional footballer with Blackburn Rovers and the current owner of Wigan Warriors and Wigan Athletic. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_England. ... Stephen Roger Bruce (born December 31, 1960, in Corbridge, near Hexham in England) is a British football manager currently in charge of Birmingham City. ... For other sports leagues which may be referred to by this name, see List of professional sports leagues. ... Locations of the 20 Premiership clubs in the 2006–2007 season, as green dots. ... Image File history File links left arm of kit template File history Legend: (cur) = this is the current file, (del) = delete this old version, (rev) = revert to this old version. ... Image File history File links No higher resolution available. ... rightarm of kit template File links The following pages link to this file: Arsenal F.C. Ajax Amsterdam AZ Alkmaar A.S. Roma Torino Calcio A.C. Milan ACF Fiorentina Bristol City F.C. Charlton Athletic F.C. Chievo Verona Chelsea F.C. England national football team Wikipedia:WikiProject Football... Image File history File links No higher resolution available. ... socks of kit template File links The following pages link to this file: Arsenal F.C. Ajax Amsterdam AZ Alkmaar A.S. Roma Torino Calcio A.C. Milan ACF Fiorentina Bristol City F.C. Charlton Athletic F.C. Chievo Verona Chelsea F.C. England national football team Wikipedia:WikiProject Football... Image File history File links left arm of kit template File history Legend: (cur) = this is the current file, (del) = delete this old version, (rev) = revert to this old version. ... Image File history File links No higher resolution available. ... rightarm of kit template File links The following pages link to this file: Arsenal F.C. Ajax Amsterdam AZ Alkmaar A.S. Roma Torino Calcio A.C. Milan ACF Fiorentina Bristol City F.C. Charlton Athletic F.C. Chievo Verona Chelsea F.C. England national football team Wikipedia:WikiProject Football... Image File history File links No higher resolution available. ... socks of kit template File links The following pages link to this file: Arsenal F.C. Ajax Amsterdam AZ Alkmaar A.S. Roma Torino Calcio A.C. Milan ACF Fiorentina Bristol City F.C. Charlton Athletic F.C. Chievo Verona Chelsea F.C. England national football team Wikipedia:WikiProject Football... Soccer redirects here. ... , Wigan is a town in Greater Manchester, England. ... Greater Manchester is a metropolitan county in North West England which has a population of 2. ... For other uses, see England (disambiguation). ...

In 2003, Wigan were promoted to the Football League Championship for the first time, and in 2005 came second in the Coca-Cola Championship to gain promotion to the Premiership. During the 2005-06 season, they reached the League Cup final for the first time and remained in the top half of the Premiership for nearly the entire duration of the season. The following are the football (soccer) events of the year 2003 throughout the world. ... The Football League Championship (often referred to as The Championship for short, or the Coca-Cola Football League Championship for sponsorship reasons) is the highest division of The Football League and second-highest division overall in the English football league system after the Premier League. ... The following are the football (soccer) events of the year 2005 throughout the world. ... The Football League Championship (often referred to as The Championship for short, or the Coca-Cola Football League Championship for sponsorship reasons) is the highest division of The Football League and second-highest division overall in the English football league system after the Premier League. ... For other sports leagues which may be referred to by this name, see List of professional sports leagues. ... Location of teams in the 2005-06 season The 2005-06 season of the FA Premier League saw Chelsea win their second successive title by defeating Manchester United on 29 April. ... The Football League Cup, commonly known as the League Cup, is an English football competition. ... For other sports leagues which may be referred to by this name, see List of professional sports leagues. ...

History

Life in the local leagues

Wigan Athletic F.C. was formed in 1932 following the demise of Wigan Borough the previous year. Wigan Athletic was the fifth attempt to stabilise a football club in the town following the demise of Wigan County, Wigan United, Wigan Town and the aforementioned Wigan Borough. Springfield Park, the former home of Wigan Borough, was purchased by the club and were elected to the Cheshire County League. The following are the football (soccer) events of the year 1932 throughout the world. ... Wigan Borough F.C. was an English football club. ... Springfield Park was a multi-use stadium in Wigan, England. ... The Cheshire County League was a football league founded in the north west of England in 1920-21. ...

In the early history of Wigan Athletic, the most notable exploits came in the FA Cup. In the 1934-35 season, Wigan beat Carlisle United 6-1 in the first round, setting a cup record for the biggest victory by a non-league club over a league club, a record which still stands today. This article is about the English FA Cup. ... Carlisle United F.C. are an English football team based in Carlisle, Cumbria, play in the Football League One this season, after gaining promotion from the Football League Two at the end of the 2005-06 season. ...

In 1945, Wigan were elected to a different league, the Lancashire Combination, and in 1950 came close to election to the Football League, narrowly losing out to Scunthorpe United on a vote. In the 1953-54 season, Wigan played an FA Cup match against Hereford United in front of a crowd of 27,526, a Wigan Athletic record and also a record for a match between two non-league teams at a non-league ground. In 1961, the club moved back to the Cheshire County League. The following are the football (soccer) events of the year 1945 throughout the world. ... The following are the football (soccer) events of the year 1950 throughout the world. ... The Football League is a league competition featuring professional football clubs from England and Wales, and is the oldest such competition in world football. ... Scunthorpe United F.C. are an English football team based in the town of Scunthorpe, North Lincolnshire, England. ... The introduction to this article provides insufficient context for those unfamiliar with the subject matter. ... Hereford United Football Club is a football club based in Hereford, England. ... The following are the football (soccer) events of the year 1961 throughout the world. ... The Cheshire County League was a football league founded in the north west of England in 1920-21. ...

Early league years

In 1968, Wigan were founder members of the Northern Premier League. After 34 failed election attempts, including one controversial but headline-making application in 1972 to join the Scottish League Second Division, Wigan were elected to the Football League in 1978 in place of Southport, who had finished next to bottom of the Fourth Division. Boston United were the Northern Premier League Champions in 1978 but their ground and facilities were deemed unsuitable for the Football League, therefore Wigan, as runners-up were put forward for election. In the club's first season of League football, Wigan finished sixth, and gained their first promotion two years later, prompting a ten year spell in the third tier of English football. The club won its first silverware as a League club in 1985, winning the Freight Rover Trophy.They were beaten in the Northern Final the following season by Bolton Wanderers. The following are the football (soccer) events of the year 1968 throughout the world. ... The Northern Premier League logo. ... The following are the football (soccer) events of the year 1972 throughout the world. ... Scottish Division Two is the second highest division of the Scottish Football League and the third highest in the Scottish football league system. ... The following are the football (soccer) events of the year 1978 throughout the world. ... Southport Football Club are an English football club, based in Southport, Merseyside. ... The Fourth Division or Division Four of The Football League was the fourth highest league division in the English football league system from 1958 until the creation of the FA Premier league prior to the 1992/93 season. ... Boston United Football Club are a football club based in Boston , England. ... The following are the football (soccer) events of the year 1985 throughout the world. ... The Football League Trophy is the generic name of an English football competition for clubs in the two lower divisions of The Football League and, in some seasons, the leading sides in the Conference National. ... Bolton Wanderers Football Club is an English professional football club based in Horwich, in the Borough of Bolton, North West England. ...

Wigan were relegated from the new Division Two in 1993, and a year later finished 19th - fourth from bottom - in Division Three to complete their worst-ever league season. The following season, 1994-95, brought a secure mid-table finish. To meet Wikipedias quality standards, this article or section may require cleanup. ... The 1994-1995 season was the 115th season of competitive football in England. ...

Rising through the league

In 1995, local millionaire David Whelan purchased the club, which was then playing in the Third Division (fourth tier), and stated his ambition to take the club to the Premiership, a statement which was widely ridiculed at the time. To meet Wikipedias quality standards, this article or section may require cleanup. ... David Whelan born in Bradford on 24 November 1936, is a former professional footballer with Blackburn Rovers and the current owner of Wigan Warriors and Wigan Athletic. ... From the 1992-93 to the 2003-04 season, the Football League Third Division was the third-highest division of The Football League and the fourth-highest division in the overall English football league system. ... For other sports leagues which may be referred to by this name, see List of professional sports leagues. ...

The first step towards Whelan's dream came true in 1997 when they won the Division Three title under the management of John Deehan. Deehan's successor Ray Mathias took Wigan to the Division Two playoffs in 1999, losing 2-1 on aggregate to neighbours Manchester City after an extremely dubious goal. This ultimately cost Mathias his job as he fell victim to Whelan's relentless drive for Premiership football. His replacement John Benson led the squad he inherited from Mathias to a commanding position at the top of Division Two in his first six months, including the demolition of local rivals Preston North End 4-1 away, only to collapse in the second half of the season and once again fail in the play-offs. This was largely attributed to the dropping of leading goalscorer Stuart Barlow who was responsible for much of the side's early success, which coupled with a series of poor quality signings of ageing, and reputedly highly paid players and a run of poor performances led to strong disapproval of the management among fans. The season ended on a depressing note with Wigan losing 3-2 to Gillingham in extra time at the last ever Division Two play-off final to be played at the old Wembley Stadium. To meet Wikipedias quality standards, this article or section may require cleanup. ... John Deehan (born 1957), is a former football (soccer) player who in recent years has had several spells in coaching and management. ... Ray Mathias is a football manager. ... The following are the football (soccer) events of the year 1999 throughout the world. ... Manchester City Football Club is an English professional football club based in the city of Manchester. ... John Benson was a legendary British television announcer, best known for saying And now. ... Preston North End Football Club are an English professional football club located in the Deepdale area of the city of Preston, Lancashire, currently playing in the second tier of English league football, The Championship. ... For the team based in Dorset, see Gillingham Town F.C. Gillingham Football Club is an English professional football club based in the town of Gillingham, Kent, currently playing in the Football League One. ... For the new stadium, see Wembley Stadium. ...

Benson then moved 'upstairs' to the new post of Director of Football, under new manager Bruce Rioch. Rioch was hampered by severe injury problems and after a difficult and often unimpressive first half of the season left the club in February of 2001. He was temporarily replaced by club stalwart Colin Greenall, before the surprise appointment of Steve Bruce in the closing games of the season. His arrival brought renewed vigour to Wigan performances, with the club ultimately falling foul once again of the play-offs, this time with Reading. Following this blow, Bruce left for Crystal Palace after repeatedly pledging his future to Wigan, leaving behind a club both grateful for his help in getting so close to promotion and also angry and bitter at his betrayal. It came as no great surprise to many Wigan fans when he did the same thing again to Palace, choosing to desert to rivals Birmingham. Bruce David Rioch (born September 6, 1947 in Aldershot) most recent position was as the coach of football club Odense BK in the Danish Superliga. ... For other uses, see February (disambiguation). ... The following are the football (soccer) events of the year 2001 throughout the world. ... Colin Greenall, born Wigan, December 30 1963, was a Professional footballer who made over 600 Football League appearances between 1981 and 1999. ... Stephen Roger Bruce (born December 31, 1960, in Corbridge, near Hexham in England) is a British football manager currently in charge of Birmingham City. ... Reading Football Club are an association football club, based in the English town of Reading, in Berkshire. ... Crystal Palace Football Club is an English professional football team based in the London Borough of Croydon. ...

In 2001, former player Paul Jewell took over as manager, and after a mixed first season, won the Division Two championship in 2002-03 with a points total of 100. Wigan finished seventh in the 2003-04 Division One campaign - a last minute goal by West Ham's Brian Deane in the final game of the season saw Latics drop out of the play off picture in favour of eventual play off winners Crystal Palace. Paul Steven Jewell (born 28 September 1964, Liverpool, England) is the current manager of Derby County, having been appointed on November 28, 2007. ... The 2002-2003 season was the 123rd season of competitive football (soccer) in England, from August 2002 to July 2003: // England national team Key: ECQ = 2004 European Championship qualifiers, F = Friendly; scores are written England first European club competitions UEFA Champions League Manchester United - Quarter finals Arsenal - Second group phase... The 2003-2004 season was the 124th season of competitive football in England. ... From 1889 until 1992, this was the highest division overall of organized football in England. ... Brian Deane (born February 7, 1968 in Leeds, Yorkshire, England) is an English footballer. ...

In the following season the Latics earned promotion to the Premiership by finishing second in the Coca-Cola Championship, behind Sunderland. May 8, 2005 is now regarded by most fans as the biggest day in the history of Wigan Athletic. On the final day of the 2004-05 Coca-Cola Championship campaign, the Latics beat Reading 3-1 at home to secure runners-up spot in the final table and a place in the Premiership for 2005-06. At the final whistle the stadium exploded with cheers and the Status Quo song Rockin' All Over the World was played over the PA system. For other sports leagues which may be referred to by this name, see List of professional sports leagues. ... The Football League Championship (often referred to as The Championship for short, or the Coca-Cola Football League Championship for sponsorship reasons) is the highest division of The Football League and second-highest division overall in the English football league system after the Premier League. ... Sunderland Association Football Club is a professional football club, based at the Stadium of Light in Sunderland, Tyne and Wear, in North-East England. ... is the 128th day of the year (129th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... The following are the football (soccer) events of the year 2005 throughout the world. ... The 2004-2005 season was the 125th season of competitive football in England. ... Reading Football Club are an association football club, based in the English town of Reading, in Berkshire. ... The 2005–06 season was the 126th season of competitive football in England. ... Rockin All Over The World is regarded as one of Status Quos best known and loved songs. ... School public address system A public address or PA system is an electronic amplification system with a mixer, amplifier and loudspeakers, used to reinforce a given sound (e. ...

Wigan in the Premier League

Wigan Athletic's first Premier League match against Chelsea F.C..

Wigan's preparations for their first season in the top-flight included the signings of Henri Camara, Damien Francis, Ryan Taylor, Josip Skoko, Michael Pollitt, Stephane Henchoz, David Connolly and the return of former captain, Arjan De Zeeuw, to the club. Inevitably, he took up his former role as captain. They also brought in the then unknown Pascal Chimbonda from Bastia for a mere £500,000. Unfortunately, during the summer, star striker Nathan Ellington, whose goals had propelled the club into the Premiership, was in the midst of serious contract negotiations. Despite the club's eagerness to hold onto his services, his overly high demands seemingly were not met. This, along with his well-known striking prowess alerted other clubs. Eventually, West Bromwich Albion triggered the get-out clause in his contract and was sold for a fee of £3,000,001. Image File history File links Metadata No higher resolution available. ... Image File history File links Metadata No higher resolution available. ... For other sports leagues which may be referred to by this name, see List of professional sports leagues. ... Chelsea Football Club (also known as The Blues or previously The Pensioners) are an English professional football club based in west London. ... Henri Camara (born May 10, 1977 in Dakar, Senegal) is a Senegalese footballer who is on loan at West Ham United, from Wigan Athletic of the English FA Premier League. ... Damien Jerome Francis (born 27 February 1979 in Wandsworth, England) is a Jamaican international footballer. ... Ryan Anthony Taylor (born August 19, 1984 in Liverpool, England) is a Under 21 International with England. ... Josip Skoko (born December 10, 1975 in Mount Gambier, Australia) is an Australian football midfielder of Croatian descent who plays for Wigan Athletic in the Premier League. ... Michael Pollitt (born February 28, 1972 in Farnworth, Lancashire) is a professional football player. ... Stéphane Henchoz (born September 7, 1974 in Billens, Switzerland) is a Swiss international footballer who is a defender with Celtic in Glasgow. ... David Connolly (born June 6, 1977 in Willesden, England) is an Irish professional footballer who plays as a striker. ... Adrianus Arjan de Zeeuw (born April 16, 1970 in Castricum, Netherlands) is a Dutch football (soccer) player. ... Pascal Chimbonda (born 21 February 1979 in Les Abymes, Guadeloupe) is a French defender who plays for Tottenham Hotspur and for the French national team. ... For the Championnat de France Amateurs Group B side, see CA Bastia. ... Nathan Robert Ellington (born July 2, 1981 in Bradford, West Yorkshire) is an English professional footballer. ... West Bromwich Albion Football Club (also known as West Brom, The Baggies, Albion, The Albion, The Throstles or W.B.A.) are an English professional football club based in West Bromwich, West Midlands. ...

Wigan's first game in the top flight was a dream come true — a home match against English Champions Chelsea. A game in which they came close to a dream start in the league, but to no avail, falling foul to a 92nd minute winner by Hernán Crespo. After the goal, José Mourinho went as far as to commiserate Paul Jewell on his poor fortune and in his post match interview claimed that Chelsea did not deserve to win. Chelsea Football Club (also known as The Blues or previously The Pensioners) are an English professional football club based in west London. ... Hernán Jorge Crespo (born July 5, 1975 in Florida, Buenos Aires) is an Argentine international football player currently playing in the Italian Serie A for Internazionale, having signed from English Premier League champions Chelsea on a 2 year loan deal on 7 August 2006. ... José Mário dos Santos Félix Mourinho, GOIH (pron. ... Paul Steven Jewell (born 28 September 1964, Liverpool, England) is the current manager of Derby County, having been appointed on November 28, 2007. ...

Wigan are only the fourth English team in the last 20 years to win promotion to the top division for the first time. The most successful debut by any of these teams was that of Wimbledon, who achieved a sixth-place finish in 1987. Millwall debuted at 10th place in 1989 before going down the following year, while Swindon Town and Barnsley were both relegated after just one season among the elite. Wimbledon F.C. crest This article refers to the original club from London which existed until 2003. ... Millwall Football Club are an English professional football team based at the New Den Stadium in Bermondsey, South East London. ... Swindon Town Football Club is an English football club based in Swindon, Wiltshire. ... Barnsley Football Club are an English football league team, based in the town of Barnsley, South Yorkshire and nicknamed the Tykes (a Tyke is a traditional Yorkshire character rugged, hardworking and with great pride in their roots). ...

By November, Wigan had surpassed even their own expectations, and sat 2nd in the Premiership, after wins against Everton, Bolton Wanderers, Newcastle United, Aston Villa, Fulham and Portsmouth. Everton Football Club is an English football club located in the city of Liverpool. ... Bolton Wanderers Football Club is an English professional football club based in Horwich, in the Borough of Bolton, North West England. ... Newcastle United Football Club (also known as The Magpies or The Toon) is an English professional football club based in Newcastle upon Tyne, who currently play in the Premier League. ... Aston Villa redirects here. ... Fulham Football Club are an English football team based in Fulham, in the London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham. ... Portsmouth Football Club are an English football club based in the south coast city of Portsmouth. ...

Wigan's meteoric rise continued on 24 January 2006, when the club secured their first ever place in a major cup final. Wigan lost on the night to Arsenal 2-1 after extra time but Jason Roberts' last minute strike in extra time secured an away goals victory following their 1-0 first leg semi final victory at the JJB Stadium previously. However, Wigan were defeated 4-0 by Wayne Rooney-inspired neighbours Manchester United on February 26, 2006 at the Millennium Stadium, Cardiff. is the 24th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2006 (MMVI) was a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ... Arsenal Football Club (also known as Arsenal, The Arsenal or The Gunners) are an English professional football club based in Holloway, north London. ... Jason Roberts (born January 25, 1978 in Park Royal, London, who attended The Cardinal Wiseman Roman Catholic High School) is a Grenadian international football player currently playing for Blackburn Rovers in the FA Premier League. ... This article or section does not adequately cite its references or sources. ... Manchester United Football Club are a world-famous English football club, based at the Old Trafford stadium in Trafford, Greater Manchester, and are one of the most popular sports clubs in the world, with over 50 million supporters worldwide. ... is the 57th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2006 (MMVI) was a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ... The Millennium Stadium (Welsh: Stadiwm y Mileniwm), is the national stadium of Wales, located in the capital Cardiff, and is used primarily for rugby union and football home internationals. ... This article is about the capital city of Wales. ...

During the 2005-06 season, Wigan Athletic also managed to complete double league wins over Sunderland, neighbours Manchester City and Aston Villa. Notably, Wigan Athletic took the most league points away from home, and had the most away victories outside the top three clubs. Wigan failed in their bid for European football and opted not to take part in the UEFA Intertoto Cup, yet retained a top ten finish in the Premiership. They brought in Paul Scharner in January to strengthen the side, and he quickly became a fan favourite with his heroic performances. Also, Wigan right-back Pascal Chimbonda was included in the PFA Team of the Season 2005-06 and was included in France's World Cup 2006 squad. However, this was overshadowed by his transfer request minutes after the last game of the season. He was subsequently sold to Tottenham Hotspur for £5.5 million on August 31, 2006. Location of teams in the 2005-06 season The 2005-06 season of the FA Premier League saw Chelsea win their second successive title by defeating Manchester United on 29 April. ... Sunderland Association Football Club is a professional football club, based at the Stadium of Light in Sunderland, Tyne and Wear, in North-East England. ... Manchester City Football Club is an English professional football club based in the city of Manchester. ... Aston Villa redirects here. ... The UEFA Intertoto Cup, also abbreviated as UI Cup is a summer football competition for European clubs that have not qualified for one of the two major UEFA competitions, the Champions League and the UEFA Cup. ... Paul Josef Herbert Scharner (born March 11, 1980 in Scheibbs) is an Austrian footballer. ... For other uses, see January (disambiguation). ... Pascal Chimbonda (born 21 February 1979 in Les Abymes, Guadeloupe) is a French defender who plays for Tottenham Hotspur and for the French national team. ... This article lists the confirmed national football squads for the 2006 FIFA World Cup tournament held in Germany, between June 9 and July 9, 2006. ... Tottenham Hotspur Football Club is an English professional football club which plays in the Premier League. ... is the 243rd day of the year (244th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2006 (MMVI) was a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ...

During the close season, Wigan sold experienced players such as Jimmy Bullard (to Fulham), Graham Kavanagh (to Sunderland) and Jason Roberts (to Blackburn Rovers), and let Damien Francis and David Connolly leave after a season of disappointing performances and an injury-plagued season respectively. Stephane Henchoz also left after his year-long contract expired. In turn, Wigan brought in Emile Heskey, Denny Landzaat, Chris Kirkland, Antonio Valencia, Kevin Kilbane, David Cotterill, Fitz Hall and Emmerson Boyce. Jimmy Bullard (born October 23, 1978) is a centre midfield footballer for Wigan Athletic, his shirt number is 21. ... Fulham Football Club are an English football team based in Fulham, in the London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham. ... Graham Kavanagh (born December 2, 1973 in Dublin) is an Irish international football player for Sunderland, having also played for Home Farm F.C., Middlesbrough, Stoke City, Cardiff City and Wigan Athletic. ... Sunderland Association Football Club is a professional football club, based at the Stadium of Light in Sunderland, Tyne and Wear, in North-East England. ... Jason Roberts (born January 25, 1978 in Park Royal, London, who attended The Cardinal Wiseman Roman Catholic High School) is a Grenadian international football player currently playing for Blackburn Rovers in the FA Premier League. ... Blackburn Rovers Football Club are an English Premier League football club based in the town of Blackburn, Lancashire. ... Damien Jerome Francis (born 27 February 1979 in Wandsworth, England) is a Jamaican international footballer. ... David Connolly (born June 6, 1977 in Willesden, England) is an Irish professional footballer who plays as a striker. ... Stéphane Henchoz (born September 7, 1974 in Billens, Switzerland) is a Swiss international footballer who is a defender with Celtic in Glasgow. ... Emile William Ivanhoe Heskey[6] (born January 11, 1978 in Leicester, England)[1] is an English footballer. ... Denny Landzaat (born May 6, 1976 in Amsterdam) is a Dutch football player. ... Christopher Edmund Kirkland (born 2 May 1981 in Barwell, Leicestershire) is an English football goalkeeper. ... Luis Antonio Valencia Mosquera (born August 4, 1985 in Nueva Loja, Sucumbios) is an Ecuadorian footballer who plays for Wigan Athletic after signing on two successive year loans after been granted a work permit, from Villarreal CF. Valencia was one of just three European-based players named in the Ecuador... Kevin Daniel Kilbane (born February 1, 1977 in Preston, England) is an Irish footballer who plays a left-sided midfielder for Wigan Athletic in the FA Premier League. ... David Rhys George Best Cotterill (born 4 December 1987 in Cardiff) is a Welsh footballer who currently plays as a striker for Wigan Athletic. ... Fitz Hall (born December 20, 1980, Walthamstow, London, UK) is an English footballer who plays for Wigan Athletic of the Premiership. ... Emmerson Orlando Boyce (born September 24, 1979 in Aylesbury) is an English footballer who plays for Wigan Athletic in the Premier League. ...

After a slow start to the 2006-07 season, Wigan's fortunes picked up with four successive victories against Manchester City, Bolton Wanderers, Fulham and Charlton Athletic. However, the club's form dipped dramatically with eight consecutive losses beginning with a close 1-0 defeat at home to Arsenal on December 13. The lengthy injury to Henri Camara, along with fellow absentee Paul Scharner further hampered their winter period. Locations of the 20 Premiership clubs in the 2006–2007 season, as green dots. ... Manchester City Football Club is an English professional football club based in the city of Manchester. ... Bolton Wanderers Football Club is an English professional football club based in Horwich, in the Borough of Bolton, North West England. ... Fulham Football Club are an English football team based in Fulham, in the London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham. ... Charlton Athletic Football Club (also known as The Addicks) is a professional football club based in Charlton, in the London Borough of Greenwich. ... is the 347th day of the year (348th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Henri Camara (born May 10, 1977 in Dakar, Senegal) is a Senegalese footballer who is on loan at West Ham United, from Wigan Athletic of the English FA Premier League. ... Paul Josef Herbert Scharner (born March 11, 1980 in Scheibbs) is an Austrian footballer. ...

Finally, their slump ended with a 1-0 home victory against Portsmouth, on February 3. This tied in with their January transfer window signings of Caleb Folan, Julius Aghahowa and David Unsworth to help to stabilise the club's Premiership status. On March 4, 2007, Wigan stood 15th in the Premiership and were in a more comfortable position than in previous weeks, moving eight points clear of Charlton Athletic after key victories over Newcastle United & Manchester City. The club finally seemed to be moving away from the relegation mire at the right time with inspired performances from new front man Caleb Folan and stand-in goalkeeper John Filan. Nevertheless, Wigan remained in serious danger of relegation after defeats at the hands of Charlton Athletic, Bolton Wanderers and perhaps more pivotally at home against West Ham United. Coupled with the resurgence of rival strugglers Fulham and Sheffield United, Wigan went into the last game of the season needing to beat Sheffield United at Bramall Lane. Portsmouth Football Club are an English football club based in the south coast city of Portsmouth. ... is the 34th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar. ... Caleb Colman Folan (born October 26, 1982 in Leeds, England) is an English-born Irish footballer, currently playing for Wigan Athletic. ... Julius Aghahowa (born February 12, 1982 in Benin City, Nigeria) is a football striker from Nigeria who currently plays for Wigan Athletic in the English Premiership as a striker. ... David Unsworth David Unsworth (born October 16, 1973 in Liverpool, England) is an English football (soccer) player, born in 1973. ... is the 63rd day of the year (64th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2007 (MMVII) is the current year, a common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar and the AD/CE era in the 21st century. ... Charlton Athletic Football Club (also known as The Addicks) is a professional football club based in Charlton, in the London Borough of Greenwich. ... Newcastle United Football Club (also known as The Magpies or The Toon) is an English professional football club based in Newcastle upon Tyne, who currently play in the Premier League. ... Manchester City Football Club is an English professional football club based in the city of Manchester. ... Caleb Colman Folan (born October 26, 1982 in Leeds, England) is an English-born Irish footballer, currently playing for Wigan Athletic. ... John Filan (born February 8, 1970) is an Australian football player. ... Charlton Athletic Football Club (also known as The Addicks) is a professional football club based in Charlton, in the London Borough of Greenwich. ... Bolton Wanderers Football Club is an English professional football club based in Horwich, in the Borough of Bolton, North West England. ... West Ham United Football Club is an English football club based in West Ham, London Borough of Newham, East London, and have played their home matches at the 35,146 capacity Boleyn Ground stadium since 1904. ... Fulham Football Club are an English football team based in Fulham, in the London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham. ... Sheffield United Football Club is a professional English football club based in the City of Sheffield, South Yorkshire. ... Sheffield United Football Club is a professional English football club based in the City of Sheffield, South Yorkshire. ... Bramall Lane Stadium is the home of Sheffield United Football Club in Sheffield, England and is the oldest major stadium in the world still to be hosting professional football matches. ...

On May 13, the final day of the 2006-07 season, a 10 man Wigan team battled and beat their Sheffield opponents 2-1 and thus guaranteeing Premiership status for another year and in doing so relegated Sheffield United to the Championship. After a dominant, fast paced and confident opening, Paul Scharner rifled home Kevin Kilbane's low cross of 14 minutes to put the Latics 1-0 up. However, a recurrence of Arjan De Zeeuw's calf injury forced him off after 30 minutes, and a re-shaped Wigan were pegged back on 38 minutes through a Jon Stead header. Yet Wigan forced their way back in front in first half injury time. Phil Jagielka handled the ball inside the area while defending a free-kick, and former Blades defender David Unsworth belted home the resulting penalty. McCulloch was sent off in the 74th minute for his second booking which put Wigan under immense pressure. However, Wigan held on for one of the biggest wins in the club's history. On May 14, 2007 Paul Jewell resigned as the manager; his assistant Chris Hutchings was appointed as the new manager later that day. is the 133rd day of the year (134th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Locations of the 20 Premiership clubs in the 2006–2007 season, as green dots. ... For other sports leagues which may be referred to by this name, see List of professional sports leagues. ... Sheffield United F.C. are a football club in The Football League. ... The Football League Championship (often referred to as The Championship for short, or the Coca-Cola Football League Championship for sponsorship reasons) is the highest division of The Football League and second-highest division overall in the English football league system after the Premier League. ... Paul Josef Herbert Scharner (born March 11, 1980 in Scheibbs) is an Austrian footballer. ... Kevin Daniel Kilbane (born February 1, 1977 in Preston, England) is an Irish footballer who plays a left-sided midfielder for Wigan Athletic in the FA Premier League. ... Adrianus Arjan de Zeeuw (born April 16, 1970 in Castricum, Netherlands) is a Dutch football (soccer) player. ... Jonathan Jon Stead (born April 7, 1983 in Huddersfield, England) is an English football player who currently plays for Sunderland A.F.C. as a forward. ... Philip Phil Jagielka (born August 17, 1982 in Sale, Greater Manchester) is an extremely versatile football player who can operate as a midfielder, defender, and even in emergencies has acted as goalkeeper (indeed, to such distinction that former Sheffield United manager Neil Warnock rarely took substitute goalkeepers to Championship and... David Unsworth David Unsworth (born October 16, 1973 in Liverpool, England) is an English football (soccer) player, born in 1973. ... May 14 is the 134th day of the year (135th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2007 (MMVII) is the current year, a common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar and the AD/CE era in the 21st century. ... Paul Steven Jewell (born 28 September 1964, Liverpool, England) is the current manager of Derby County, having been appointed on November 28, 2007. ... Christopher Chris Hutchings (born 5 July 1957 in Winchester, England) is an English former footballer and a manager, who is unemployed after being sacked by Wigan Athletic on 5 November 2007. ...

Wigan's third kit for the 07/08 season.

Hutchings wasted no time in bringing in experienced, well-known players, such as former Newcastle footballers Titus Bramble and Antoine Sibierski, former Rennes player Mario Melchiot, Preston North End keeper Carlo Nash, the much sought after Jason Koumas, Fulham's Michael Brown, while Andreas Granqvist signed on permanently and Antonio Valencia extended his loan for another season. This poured water over Paul Jewell's argument that such players would not consider Wigan.^{[citation needed]}. However, to allow more players into the squad, some players had to leave. This included Arjan De Zeeuw, who joined Coventry City, Matt Jackson, who signed for Watford, David Unsworth (released), John Filan (released) and former favourite, Lee McCulloch, who finally sealed his dream move to Rangers. Another fan favourite, Leighton Baines, who had already turned down a move to newly promoted Sunderland, rejected a new contract at the club, and eventually signed for his boyhood team Everton. Melchiot was installed as the new club captain following the wholesale changes. Image File history File links left arm of kit template File history Legend: (cur) = this is the current file, (del) = delete this old version, (rev) = revert to this old version. ... Image File history File links No higher resolution available. ... rightarm of kit template File links The following pages link to this file: Arsenal F.C. Ajax Amsterdam AZ Alkmaar A.S. Roma Torino Calcio A.C. Milan ACF Fiorentina Bristol City F.C. Charlton Athletic F.C. Chievo Verona Chelsea F.C. England national football team Wikipedia:WikiProject Football... Image File history File links No higher resolution available. ... socks of kit template File links The following pages link to this file: Arsenal F.C. Ajax Amsterdam AZ Alkmaar A.S. Roma Torino Calcio A.C. Milan ACF Fiorentina Bristol City F.C. Charlton Athletic F.C. Chievo Verona Chelsea F.C. England national football team Wikipedia:WikiProject Football... Titus Malachi Bramble (born July 21, 1981 in Ipswich, Suffolk) is an English football player, currently playing for Wigan Athletic in the FA Premier League. ... Antoine Sibierski (born August 5, 1974 in Lille) is a French football player and model who currently plays for Wigan Athletic. ... Mario Melchiot (born November 4, 1976 in Amsterdam) is a Dutch football defender who currently plays for Wigan Athletic in the English Premier League. ... Preston North End Football Club are an English professional football club located in the Deepdale area of the city of Preston, Lancashire, currently playing in the second tier of English league football, The Championship. ... Carlo Nash (born 13 September 1973 in Bolton) is an English professional football player. ... Jason Koumas (born September 25, 1979 in Wrexham) is a professional player for Football League Championship outfit West Bromwich Albion. ... Fulham Football Club are an English football team based in Fulham, in the London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham. ... What may be Americas most common name crossing all races. ... Andreas Granqvist (born 16 April 1985 in Helsingborg) is a Swedish football player, currently representing Helsingborgs IF in Allsvenskan. ... Luis Antonio Valencia Mosquera (born August 4, 1985 in Nueva Loja, Sucumbios) is an Ecuadorian footballer who plays for Wigan Athletic after signing on two successive year loans after been granted a work permit, from Villarreal CF. Valencia was one of just three European-based players named in the Ecuador... Adrianus Arjan de Zeeuw (born April 16, 1970 in Castricum, Netherlands) is a Dutch football (soccer) player. ... Coventry City Football Club, otherwise known as the Sky Blues owing to the traditional colour of their strip, is an English football club based in Coventry, England. ... Matthew Alan Matt Jackson (born October 19, 1971 in Leeds, England) is an English footballer. ... It has been suggested that Harry the Hornet be merged into this article or section. ... David Unsworth David Unsworth (born October 16, 1973 in Liverpool, England) is an English football (soccer) player, born in 1973. ... John Filan (born February 8, 1970) is an Australian football player. ... Lee Henry McCulloch (born May 14, 1978 in Bellshill) is a Scottish professional football player. ... For other uses, see Rangers F.C. (disambiguation). ... Leighton John Baines (born December 11, 1984 in Liverpool, England) is an English footballer, who currently plays at left fullback for Everton in the English Premier League. ... Sunderland Association Football Club is a professional football club, based at the Stadium of Light in Sunderland, Tyne and Wear, in North-East England. ... Everton Football Club is an English football club located in the city of Liverpool. ...

For the 2007/08 season, Wigan's home shirt returned to blue and white stripes, having been blue with white sleeves in 2006/07. The away shirt became white with a black trim, incorporating black shorts and black socks. They also introduced a third kit; dark blue with a royal blue trim. The 2007–08 Premier League season (known as the Barclays Premier League for sponsorship reasons) is the sixteenth since its establishment. ... Locations of the 20 Premiership clubs in the 2006–2007 season, as green dots. ...

Final changes to the squad took place before the Transfer Deadline. This saw Wigan sign much travelled striker Marcus Bent on loan and winger Rachid Bouaouzan for £300,000. At the same time, Henri Camara left to go on loan to West Ham United, while Caleb Folan signed for Hull City for £1 million. Cameroonian left-back Salomon Olembé was brought in as a free agent on September 4. Marcus Nathan Bent (born 19 May 1978 in Hammersmith, England) is an English footballer, who in a short career has managed to play for several different professional sides. ... Rachid Bouaouzan (born 20 February 1984) is a Dutch-Moroccan football player who currently plays for Wigan Athletic. ... Henri Camara (born May 10, 1977 in Dakar, Senegal) is a Senegalese footballer who is on loan at West Ham United, from Wigan Athletic of the English FA Premier League. ... West Ham United Football Club is an English football club based in West Ham, London Borough of Newham, East London, and have played their home matches at the 35,146 capacity Boleyn Ground stadium since 1904. ... Caleb Colman Folan (born October 26, 1982 in Leeds, England) is an English-born Irish footballer, currently playing for Wigan Athletic. ... Hull City Association Football Club is an English football club based in Kingston upon Hull, East Riding of Yorkshire. ... Salomon René Olembé-Olembé (born December 8, 1980 in Yaoundé) is a Cameroonian football player who, as of 2005, is playing for Olympique de Marseille. ... is the 247th day of the year (248th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ...

The season began with a spirited, yet disappointing 2-1 defeat away at Everton, but this was followed by consecutive home victories: 1-0 against Middlesbrough and 3-0 against Sunderland. This led to Wigan topping the Premier League for the first time in their history. Wigan's start had seen their new signings gel quickly, with Andreas Granqvist and Titus Bramble forming a sold partnership in the defence, captain Mario Melchiot leading by example, Jason Koumas adding a new creative dimension to the midfield and Antoine Sibierski scoring in each of the first 3 games. Wigan drew 1-1 away at West Ham before losing 1-0 away at Newcastle in their next game. Wanting to emulate their successful Football League Cup run from 2006, Chris Hutchings aimed to win the trophy this time around, only to see Wigan fail at the first hurdle, losing 1-0 at home to Hull City. Everton Football Club is an English football club located in the city of Liverpool. ... Middlesbrough Football Club (commonly known as Boro) are an English football club based in Middlesbrough. ... Sunderland Association Football Club is a professional football club, based at the Stadium of Light in Sunderland, Tyne and Wear, in North-East England. ... For other sports leagues which may be referred to by this name, see List of professional sports leagues. ... Andreas Granqvist (born 16 April 1985 in Helsingborg) is a Swedish football player, currently representing Helsingborgs IF in Allsvenskan. ... Titus Malachi Bramble (born July 21, 1981 in Ipswich, Suffolk) is an English football player, currently playing for Wigan Athletic in the FA Premier League. ... Mario Melchiot (born November 4, 1976 in Amsterdam) is a Dutch football defender who currently plays for Wigan Athletic in the English Premier League. ... Jason Koumas (born September 25, 1979 in Wrexham) is a professional player for Football League Championship outfit West Bromwich Albion. ... Antoine Sibierski (born August 5, 1974 in Lille) is a French football player and model who currently plays for Wigan Athletic. ... The West Ham United Crest West Ham United F.C are a professional English football club based in East London. ... For the Australian soccer club see Newcastle United (Australia). ... The Football League Cup, commonly known as the League Cup, is an English football competition. ... The 2006 Football League Cup final also known as the 2006 Carling Cup Final was played between Manchester United and Wigan Athletic on 26 February 2006. ... Hull City Association Football Club is an English football club based in Kingston upon Hull, East Riding of Yorkshire. ...

Wigan's improved start to the season saw Emile Heskey recalled to the England Squad for the first time since 2005. Emile William Ivanhoe Heskey[6] (born January 11, 1978 in Leicester, England)[1] is an English footballer. ... First international  Scotland 0 - 0 England (Partick, Scotland; 30 November 1872) Biggest win  Ireland 0 - 13 England (Belfast, Ireland; 18 February 1882) Biggest defeat  Hungary 7 - 1 England (Budapest, Hungary; 23 May 1954) World Cup Appearances 12 (First in 1950) Best result Winners, 1966 European Championship Appearances 7 (First in...

Sadly Emile Heskey, immediately after his England call-up, broke his foot in his next game for his club, September 15, 2007, without touching the ball. He was out injured for 6 weeks. Subsequently the club's league position worsened. After a 1-1 draw at home with Fulham, Wigan lost successive games to Reading, Liverpool, 4-0 away to Manchester United, Portsmouth, Birmingham - after leading twice only to lose 3-2, and Chelsea 2-0. Emile William Ivanhoe Heskey[6] (born January 11, 1978 in Leicester, England)[1] is an English footballer. ... is the 258th day of the year (259th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2007 (MMVII) is the current year, a common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar and the AD/CE era in the 21st century. ... Fulham Football Club are an English football team based in Fulham, in the London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham. ... Reading Football Club are an association football club, based in the English town of Reading, in Berkshire. ... Liverpool Football Club are an English professional football club based in Liverpool, Merseyside, who play in the Premier League; they are historically the most successful club in the history of English football, having won more trophies than any other English club. ... Manchester United Football Club are a world-famous English football club, based at the Old Trafford stadium in Trafford, Greater Manchester, and are one of the most popular sports clubs in the world, with over 50 million supporters worldwide. ... Portsmouth Football Club are an English football club based in the south coast city of Portsmouth. ... Birmingham City Football Club are an English professional football club based in the city of Birmingham. ... Chelsea Football Club (also known as The Blues or previously The Pensioners) are an English professional football club based in west London. ...

On 5 November 2007 Manager Chris Hutchings was sacked after Wigan slipped into the relegation zone. Frank Barlow, his assistant, was made Caretaker Manager, but Wigan's fortunes did not get better, losing 4-0 away to Tottenham. is the 309th day of the year (310th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2007 (MMVII) is the current year, a common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar and the AD/CE era in the 21st century. ... Christopher Chris Hutchings (born 5 July 1957 in Winchester, England) is an English former footballer and a manager, who is unemployed after being sacked by Wigan Athletic on 5 November 2007. ... Frank Charles Barlow (born 15th October, 1946) is currently the Assistant Manager to Phil Parkinson at Hull City football club. ... Tottenham Hotspur F.C. is a North London association football team, also known by the nickname Spurs. ...

On November 19, it was announced that Steve Bruce, who had just resigned as Birmingham City manager, had accepted a £2m-a-year deal to succeed Hutchings and attempt to keep Wigan in the Premier League. It is reported that Wigan had to pay £3 million in compensation to Birmingham for Bruce's services. is the 323rd day of the year (324th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Stephen Roger Bruce (born December 31, 1960, in Corbridge, near Hexham in England) is a British football manager currently in charge of Birmingham City. ... Birmingham City (BCFC) is one of Birminghams two professional soccer teams (the other is Aston Villa F.C.). Originally known as The Small Heath Alliance, they became in 1905 and Birmingham City F.C. in 1945. ...

Stadium

Main article: JJB Stadium

Wigan Athletic's stadium is the 25,138 capacity JJB Stadium, part of the Robin Park complex in Wigan. It has been the club's home since the 1999-00 season. The stadium, which is shared with the Wigan Warriors rugby league team, cost £30 million to construct. Previously, home games were played at Springfield Park, the former home of Wigan Borough. The JJB Stadium is a sports stadium located within the Robin Park Complex in Newtown, Wigan, Greater Manchester. ... The JJB Stadium is a sports stadium located within the Robin Park Complex in Newtown, Wigan, Greater Manchester. ... The 1999-2000 season was the 120th season of competitive football in England. ... Wigan Warriors are a rugby league team based in Wigan, Greater Manchester. ... Rugby league football (usually shortened to rugby league, football, league) is a full-contact team sport played with a prolate spheroid-shaped ball by two teams of thirteen on a rectangular grass field. ... Springfield Park was a multi-use stadium in Wigan, England. ...

The record attendance at the JJB Stadium for Wigan Athletic is 25,023 for a match against Liverpool on February 11, 2006. The JJB Stadium is a sports stadium located within the Robin Park Complex in Newtown, Wigan, Greater Manchester. ... Liverpool Football Club are an English professional football club based in Liverpool, Merseyside, who play in the Premier League; they are historically the most successful club in the history of English football, having won more trophies than any other English club. ... is the 42nd day of the year in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2006 (MMVI) was a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ...

The modern all-seater stadium was officially opened on August 4, 1999. Its inauguration was marked with a friendly between Wigan Athletic and neighbours Manchester United, who were then reigning European Champions, with Sir Alex Ferguson officially opening the stadium. However, Wigan hosted Morecambe three days earlier on August 1st as a dress rehearsal for the official opening against Manchester United. 4,020 supporters braved a fierce electrical storm and torrential rain but unfortunately, the on-pitch action was less dramatic with the game ending in a goalless draw. The first competitive football match there took place on August 7, 1999, with Wigan Athletic facing Scunthorpe United in a Division 2 match. Simon Haworth scored twice, including the first competitive goal at the new stadium, as Athletic triumphed 3-0. Manchester United Football Club are a world-famous English football club, based at the Old Trafford stadium in Trafford, Greater Manchester, and are one of the most popular sports clubs in the world, with over 50 million supporters worldwide. ... For other persons named Alex Ferguson, see Alex Ferguson (disambiguation). ... It has been suggested that Morecambe F.C. Transfer History be merged into this article or section. ... is the 213th day of the year (214th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 219th day of the year (220th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... This article is about the year. ...

On March 7, 2005 Greater Manchester police announced that they would stop policing Wigan Athletic matches at the stadium from April 2. This move would almost certainly have resulted in the stadium's safety certificate being revoked, effectively forcing the team to play behind closed doors. The move was part of an ongoing dispute between the police force and David Whelan surrounding £300,000 in unpaid policing costs. The police's decision would not have affected Wigan Warriors, whose games are stewarded instead of policed. The situation was temporarily resolved on March 8 with both sides reaching an agreement that would allow Athletic to play at the ground until the end of the season. Four months later, Wigan, facing the prospect of playing their home games in the Premier League in an empty stadium, grudgingly paid the money they owed to the police. However, following the ordeal the club appealed against the payments in court. is the 66th day of the year (67th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2005 (MMV) was a common year starting on Saturday (link displays full calendar) of the Gregorian calendar. ... Greater Manchester is a metropolitan county in North West England which has a population of 2. ... is the 92nd day of the year (93rd in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... David Whelan born in Bradford on 24 November 1936, is a former professional footballer with Blackburn Rovers and the current owner of Wigan Warriors and Wigan Athletic. ... Wigan Warriors are a rugby league team based in Wigan, Greater Manchester. ... is the 67th day of the year (68th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... For other sports leagues which may be referred to by this name, see List of professional sports leagues. ...

Traditions at Wigan Athletic

Wigan Athletic's mascots are JJ (Jay-Jay) and B (Bea) who make regular appearances at home fixtures. The two mascots are intentionally named to create JJB, the club's main sponsor. The former mascot of Wigan Athletic was almost identical to the more recent JJ but was named 'Springy' in reference to the home of the club at the time, Springfield Park. Wikipedia does not yet have an article with this exact name. ... Springfield Park was a multi-use stadium in Wigan, England. ...

The most popular football chant used by supporters has been "You Are My Sunshine," but recent additions are the Frankie Valli classic "Let's Hang On!" which was representative of the club's record of 1-0 small goal leads, especially in the 2003-04 season. Other notable favourites include: "We Come From Wigan And We Live In Mudhuts, oo-agh-oo-oo-agh,you should be a wig-in-a!" and "Teale Will Tear You Apart Again" - a parody of Joy Division's "Love Will Tear Us Apart" sung mainly when winger Gary Teale (now with Derby County) was playing, although it was first heard some ten years ago at Old Trafford, in ode to Ryan Giggs "Giggs will tear you apart". . Other chants for players include "Zooo!" for former captain Arjan De Zeeuw (now with Coventry City) , and also a chant to the tune of "Baby Give It Up", replacing the titular words with the name of striker Henri Camara. A new and recent chant is to the tune of The Automatic's hit, 'Monster', where the fans sing "What's That Coming Over The Hill, It's Emile Heskey, It's Emile Heskey!!' Another song is "We've won it 2 times, Auto-Windscreens, We've won it 2 times" mimicking Liverpool Won it 5 times song. Fans used to show their support for long-serving, former manager Paul Jewell, with the satirical, "Who Needs Mourinho, We've Got Paul Jewellio!" You Are My Sunshine is a popular song first recorded about 1940. ... Frankie Valli (born May 3, 1934 or 1937[2]) is best known as the falsetto-voiced lead singer of The Four Seasons, a music act of the 1960s, which continues to perform. ... The 2003-2004 season was the 124th season of competitive football in England. ... This article is about the band. ... Love Will Tear Us Apart Original single sleeve Love Will Tear Us Apart is the best known song by the band Joy Division. ... Skillfull winger although not consistent on his day he is as good as any winger in any division in the world. ... Derby County Football Club are an English football club based in Derby, who play in the Premier League. ... Adrianus Arjan de Zeeuw (born April 16, 1970 in Castricum, Netherlands) is a Dutch football (soccer) player. ... Coventry City Football Club, otherwise known as the Sky Blues owing to the traditional colour of their strip, is an English football club based in Coventry, England. ... Henri Camara (born May 10, 1977 in Dakar, Senegal) is a Senegalese footballer who is on loan at West Ham United, from Wigan Athletic of the English FA Premier League. ... The Automatic otherwise known as The Automatic Automatic, in the U.S. and Canada[1][2], are a band who formed in Cowbridge, Vale of Glamorgan, Wales but are now based in Cardiff. ... Emile William Ivanhoe Heskey[6] (born January 11, 1978 in Leicester, England)[1] is an English footballer. ... Paul Steven Jewell (born 28 September 1964, Liverpool, England) is the current manager of Derby County, having been appointed on November 28, 2007. ... José Mário dos Santos Félix Mourinho, GOIH (pron. ...

The club's nickname is "The Latics", a corruption of the word 'Athletic', a nickname also shared by near neighbours Oldham Athletic. When the two teams meet, it is known as The Latics' derby, for obvious reasons. Rochdale Road stand Oldham Athletic Association Football Club is an English football club based at Boundary Park, on Sheepfoot Lane, Oldham. ...

Wigan's current local rivals are Bolton Wanderers who had failed to beat Wigan in the Premier League (until Bolton's 3-1 victory at Wigan on April 7, 2006) but have finished higher in the league than Wigan for every season since 1987/88. Bolton Wanderers supporters, however, rarely feel the same rivalry for Wigan Athletic, since the rivalry is a fairly recent addition and due to Bolton having more regular rivals such as Manchester United, Manchester City, Oldham Athletic and Blackburn Rovers in their vicinity. Bolton Wanderers Football Club is an English professional football club based in Horwich, in the Borough of Bolton, North West England. ... For other sports leagues which may be referred to by this name, see List of professional sports leagues. ... April 7 is the 97th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar (98th in leap years). ... Year 2006 (MMVI) was a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ... // First Division Liverpool won the league title with a comfortable nine-point margin and just two defeats all season. ... Bolton Wanderers Football Club is an English professional football club based in Horwich, in the Borough of Bolton, North West England. ... Manchester United Football Club are a world-famous English football club, based at the Old Trafford stadium in Trafford, Greater Manchester, and are one of the most popular sports clubs in the world, with over 50 million supporters worldwide. ... Manchester City Football Club is an English professional football club based in the city of Manchester. ... Rochdale Road stand Oldham Athletic Association Football Club is an English football club based at Boundary Park, on Sheepfoot Lane, Oldham. ... Blackburn Rovers Football Club are an English Premier League football club based in the town of Blackburn, Lancashire. ...

Football / Rugby Feud

Curiously for an English football team, a rivalry exists with fans of the local rugby league team, Wigan Warriors. This is long-standing and predates the club’s formation, as previous football teams within the town are said to have struggled to attract support due to the success of the local rugby league side in the early 1900’s.

Relative fortunes have also fostered resentment. In the 1989-1990 season, Wigan Athletic, deep in financial trouble, were given a lifeline with a two-leg tie against Liverpool in the Football League Cup. When approached, the Wigan RL board refused to allow the football club use of their Central Park ground, which would have given the home side a greater share of the gate revenue (due to the fact Central Park had a larger capacity of around 32,000) forcing both ties to be played at Anfield. The need to move the game came as Springfield Park had recently had its capacity cut from 20,000 to 10,800 in 1985 by Wigan Council due to safety concerns.

Generally, Wigan Warriors rugby league supporters are associated with the eastern areas of town; Wigan Athletic fans are associated with the western areas, which surrounded their old Springfield Park home (although this is not exclusive). It is also argued that Rugby League is more favoured as a sport by followers of the Catholic faith; although the rivalry does not have any sectarian elements. (St Patrick's RL club were often seen as a feeder to the professional team in the area. They are based in the Scholes district which was always looked upon as the Irish quarter of the town)

Unfortunately the rivalry does not show any sign of lessening. There are often chants aimed at one another when either of the teams play at the JJB. As an example of this, Dave Whelan was interviewed on Sky Sports News by a reporter at a social club in Wigan when the Latics won promotion to the Premiership. Latics fans started offensive chants against the Warriors much to a bemused Whelan's annoyance, who questioned these actions saying "Don't do that, it's your own town's rugby club".

The rivalry has even developed to the extent where fans of the rival sport will support the away team. However, it must also be noted that some fans do claim to support both teams and have tried to discourage the animosity. Many older Latics fans will be heard saying, "never forget" at this point.

Controversy, criticism, and the media

Wigan Athletic's rise to the Premiership has been well-documented by the English media, who at times have speculated and criticised the club about relatively low attendances for home matches. This was compounded by the League Cup semi-final game against Arsenal, where the match attendance was 12,181 (48 percent of ground capacity). The club's management argued that this attendance was because the match was televised, played on a cold, rainy, weekday evening, and also deep amongst the backlog of games created by reduction by a week of the football season. For other sports leagues which may be referred to by this name, see List of professional sports leagues. ... The Football League Cup, commonly known as the League Cup, is an English football competition. ... Arsenal Football Club (also known as Arsenal, The Arsenal or The Gunners) are an English professional football club based in Holloway, north London. ...

Of course, these reasons exclude the traditional rebuttal that the proximity of Manchester United, Manchester City, Liverpool, Everton, Blackburn Rovers and Bolton Wanderers have an impact on the crowds at the comparatively 'newer' team. Manchester United Football Club are a world-famous English football club, based at the Old Trafford stadium in Trafford, Greater Manchester, and are one of the most popular sports clubs in the world, with over 50 million supporters worldwide. ... Manchester City Football Club is an English professional football club based in the city of Manchester. ... Liverpool Football Club are an English professional football club based in Liverpool, Merseyside, who play in the Premier League; they are historically the most successful club in the history of English football, having won more trophies than any other English club. ... Everton Football Club is an English football club located in the city of Liverpool. ... Blackburn Rovers Football Club are an English Premier League football club based in the town of Blackburn, Lancashire. ... Bolton Wanderers Football Club is an English professional football club based in Horwich, in the Borough of Bolton, North West England. ...

Further, for the 2006-2007 season, chairman Dave Whelan raised ticket prices which angered many fans who didn't agree with the substantial increase in demand in only Wigan's second season in the top flight. Responding to criticism and falling attendances, tickets were reduced to a maximum of £25 from January 2007, with promises that they would remain low for following seasons at a time when ticket prices are driving many away from attending live matches.^{[citation needed]} Mr Whelan kept his word and released the 2007-08 season ticket at a cut-price £250 (£13.16 per game) for an adult seat anywhere in the ground with relative consessions for children and senior citizens. This was seen as a positive move when prices continued to spiral at other Premiership clubs. It should be noted that he reneged on a promise that "no seat would be more than £15" for non-season ticket holders,[1] charging up to £25 per ticket for games against local opposition and high profile opponents[2]. Locations of the 20 Premiership clubs in the 2006–2007 season, as green dots. ... David Whelan (born in Bradford on 24 November 1936) is a former professional footballer with the Blackburn Rovers and the current owner of Wigan Athletic. ... January 2007 is the first month of that year. ... The 2007–08 Premier League season (known as the Barclays Premier League for sponsorship reasons) is the sixteenth since its establishment. ...

Notable former players

Image File history File links Flag_of_England. ... Peter Atherton is an English football player who can play in defence or midfield. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_England. ... Leighton John Baines (born December 11, 1984 in Liverpool, England) is an English footballer, who currently plays at left fullback for Everton in the English Premier League. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_England. ... Jimmy Bullard (born October 23, 1978) is a centre midfield footballer for Wigan Athletic, his shirt number is 21. ... Image File history File links Ulster_banner. ... Roy Eric Carroll (born September 30, 1977 in Enniskillen, County Fermanagh) is a Northern Irish footballer who is currently without a club after being released by West Ham United. ... Image File history File links This is a lossless scalable vector image. ... Pascal Chimbonda (born 21 February 1979 in Les Abymes, Guadeloupe) is a French defender who plays for Tottenham Hotspur and for the French national team. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_Ireland. ... Peter Joseph Corr (born June 23, 1923, Dundalk, County Louth, Ireland; died June 1, 2001, Goosnargh, Lancashire, England), is a former Irish footballer. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_the_Netherlands. ... Adrianus Arjan de Zeeuw (born April 16, 1970 in Castricum, Netherlands) is a Dutch football (soccer) player. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_England. ... Nathan Robert Ellington (born July 2, 1981 in Bradford, West Yorkshire) is an English professional footballer. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_England. ... David Fairclough (born Liverpool, 5th January 1957) was a footballer whose special role in the great Liverpool side of the 1970s was that of Supersub. ... Image File history File links This is a lossless scalable vector image. ... John Filan (born February 8, 1970) is an Australian football player. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_Scotland. ... Archibald Archie Gemmill (born March 24, 1947 in Paisley, Renfrewshire) is a Scottish former footballer, best known for his time at Nottingham Forest. ... Image File history File links This is a lossless scalable vector image. ... Jason deVos (surname often spelt De Vos or DeVos; born January 2, 1974 in Appin, Ontario) is a professional soccer player who plays for Ipswich Town F.C. in the Football League Championship in England and on the Canadian national soccer team. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_England. ... Colin Greenall, born Wigan, December 30 1963, was a Professional footballer who made over 600 Football League appearances between 1981 and 1999. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_England. ... Matthew Alan Matt Jackson (born October 19, 1971 in Leeds, England) is an English footballer. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_England. ... Paul Steven Jewell (born 28 September 1964, Liverpool, England) is the current manager of Derby County, having been appointed on November 28, 2007. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_Scotland. ... Andy Liddell is a Scottish forward who currently plays for Oldham Athletic A.F.C. He was born June 28, 1973. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_England. ... For other persons named David Lowe, see David Lowe (disambiguation). ... Image File history File links Flag_of_Spain. ... Roberto Martínez (born 13 July 1973 in Balaguer, Catalonia, Spain) is a professional footballer who currently is manager of Swansea City. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_Scotland. ... Stephen Steve McMillan (born January 19, 1976 in Edinburgh) was a Scottish former footballer, who retired from professional football in February 2007. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_Scotland. ... Lee Henry McCulloch (born May 14, 1978 in Bellshill) is a Scottish professional football player. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_Scotland. ... Colin Methven (born December 10, 1955) is an Indian-born Scottish former professional footballer. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_England. ... Joe Parkinson (born 11-06-1971 in Eccles, Greater Manchester, England) is a former professional footballer, who played in midfield for Wigan Athletic, AFC Bournemouth and Everton FC. After stints in the lower leagues with Wigan Athletic and Bournemouth the combative midfielder was signed by Everton manager Mike Walkeron 28... Image File history File links Flag_of_Grenada. ... Jason Roberts (born January 25, 1978 in Park Royal, London, who attended The Cardinal Wiseman Roman Catholic High School) is a Grenadian international football player currently playing for Blackburn Rovers in the FA Premier League. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_England. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_England. ... David Unsworth David Unsworth (born October 16, 1973 in Liverpool, England) is an English football (soccer) player, born in 1973. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_England. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_England. ... Alan Kennedy (born 31st August 1954) was a footballer who played for Liverpool during their halcyon days in the late 1970s and early 1980s who had a knack of scoring in major cup finals. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_England. ... Harry Lyon is a New Zealand musician and songwriter. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_England. ... Ian Kilford (born 6 October 1973) is a footballer currently playing for Kendal Town F.C.. Amongst others he played for Wigan Athletic F.C., Nottingham Forest F.C. and Scunthorpe United F.C.. He plays central midfield and possesses a brilliant first touch and a keen eye for goal. ...

Notable former managers

Image File history File links Flag_of_England. ... Sir Robert Bobby Charlton, CBE (born 11 October 1937 in Ashington, Northumberland) is a former English professional football player who won the World Cup and was named the European Footballer of the Year in 1966. ... Image File history File links Ulster_banner. ... Bryan Hamilton (born Belfast 21 December 1947) was a Northern Irish footballer and football manager. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_England. ... Paul Steven Jewell (born 28 September 1964, Liverpool, England) is the current manager of Derby County, having been appointed on November 28, 2007. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_England. ... Larry Lloyd (born Bristol, England, 6th October 1948) was a burly and tough central defender who won belated honours in football in Brian Cloughs all-conquering Nottingham Forest side of the late 1970s. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_England. ... Gordon Milne (born 29 March 1937) was an English footballer and football manager. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_Scotland. ... Bruce David Rioch (born September 6, 1947 in Aldershot) most recent position was as the coach of football club Odense BK in the Danish Superliga. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_Scotland. ... Ian McNeill (born 24 February 1932 in Glasgow) is a former footballer who later became a coach and a scout. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_England. ... Harry McNally (born 1936) was a football player, coach and manager, noted for his spells as manager of Wigan Athletic and Chester City. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_England. ... Ray Mathias is a football manager. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_England. ... John Deehan (born 1957), is a former football (soccer) player who in recent years has had several spells in coaching and management. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_England. ... Christopher Chris Hutchings (born 5 July 1957 in Winchester, England) is an English former footballer and a manager, who is unemployed after being sacked by Wigan Athletic on 5 November 2007. ...

Players

As of 4 September 2007.^[2]

is the 247th day of the year (248th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2007 (MMVII) is the current year, a common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar and the AD/CE era in the 21st century. ...

Current squad

No. Position Player 1 GK Chris Kirkland 2 DF Ryan Taylor 4 DF Andreas Granqvist 5 DF Fitz Hall 6 MF Antoine Sibierski 8 MF Kevin Kilbane 9 FW Emile Heskey (Vice-captain) 10 MF Jason Koumas 11 MF Michael Brown 12 GK Michael Pollitt 13 GK Carlo Nash 14 MF Denny Landzaat 15 FW Julius Aghahowa 16 MF Antonio Valencia (on loan from Villarreal)

No. Position Player 17 DF Emmerson Boyce 18 MF Paul Scharner 19 DF Titus Bramble 20 DF Salomon Olembé 21 MF Tomasz Cywka 22 FW David Cotterill 23 FW Marcus Bent (on loan from Charlton Athletic) 24 MF Josip Skoko 25 DF Mario Melchiot (Captain) 26 MF Rachid Bouaouzan 27 FW Tomasz Kupisz 28 MF Peter Moore 29 MF Lewis Montrose 30 GK Russell Saunders

Image File history File links Flag_of_England. ... A football goalkeeper leaves the ground to parry a shot on goal In many team sports, a goalkeeper (termed goaltender, netminder, goalie, or keeper in some sports) is a designated player that is charged with directly preventing the opposite team from scoring by defending the goal. ... Christopher Edmund Kirkland (born 2 May 1981 in Barwell, Leicestershire) is an English football goalkeeper. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_England. ... The Bolton players in white are defending - the nearest player is trying to prevent the Fulham forward in cyan from crossing the ball. ... Ryan Anthony Taylor (born August 19, 1984 in Liverpool, England) is a Under 21 International with England. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_Sweden. ... The Bolton players in white are defending - the nearest player is trying to prevent the Fulham forward in cyan from crossing the ball. ... Andreas Granqvist (born 16 April 1985 in Helsingborg) is a Swedish football player, currently representing Helsingborgs IF in Allsvenskan. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_England. ... The Bolton players in white are defending - the nearest player is trying to prevent the Fulham forward in cyan from crossing the ball. ... Fitz Hall (born December 20, 1980, Walthamstow, London, UK) is an English footballer who plays for Wigan Athletic of the Premiership. ... Image File history File links This is a lossless scalable vector image. ... The Midfield in relation to the football positions In association football, a midfielder is a player whose position of play is midway between the attacking strikers and the defenders (highlighted in blue on the diagram). ... Antoine Sibierski (born August 5, 1974 in Lille) is a French football player and model who currently plays for Wigan Athletic. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_Ireland. ... The Midfield in relation to the football positions In association football, a midfielder is a player whose position of play is midway between the attacking strikers and the defenders (highlighted in blue on the diagram). ... Kevin Daniel Kilbane (born February 1, 1977 in Preston, England) is an Irish footballer who plays a left-sided midfielder for Wigan Athletic in the FA Premier League. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_England. ... Strikers, also known as forwards and attackers, and formerly inside forwards, are the players on a team in football in the row nearest to the opposing teams goal, who are therefore principally responsible for scoring goals. ... Emile William Ivanhoe Heskey[6] (born January 11, 1978 in Leicester, England)[1] is an English footballer. ... A vice-captain in football (soccer), is a player that is expected to captain the side when the club captain is not included in the starting eleven, or if the club captain is substituted. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_Wales_2. ... The Midfield in relation to the football positions In association football, a midfielder is a player whose position of play is midway between the attacking strikers and the defenders (highlighted in blue on the diagram). ... Jason Koumas (born September 25, 1979 in Wrexham) is a professional player for Football League Championship outfit West Bromwich Albion. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_England. ... The Midfield in relation to the football positions In association football, a midfielder is a player whose position of play is midway between the attacking strikers and the defenders (highlighted in blue on the diagram). ... Michael Robert Brown (born January 25, 1977 in Hartlepool, England), is a professional footballer who plays in a midfield position for Fulham in the English Premiership. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_England. ... A football goalkeeper leaves the ground to parry a shot on goal In many team sports, a goalkeeper (termed goaltender, netminder, goalie, or keeper in some sports) is a designated player that is charged with directly preventing the opposite team from scoring by defending the goal. ... Michael Pollitt (born February 28, 1972 in Farnworth, Lancashire) is a professional football player. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_England. ... A football goalkeeper leaves the ground to parry a shot on goal In many team sports, a goalkeeper (termed goaltender, netminder, goalie, or keeper in some sports) is a designated player that is charged with directly preventing the opposite team from scoring by defending the goal. ... Carlo Nash (born 13 September 1973 in Bolton) is an English professional football player. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_the_Netherlands. ... The Midfield in relation to the football positions In association football, a midfielder is a player whose position of play is midway between the attacking strikers and the defenders (highlighted in blue on the diagram). ... Denny Landzaat (born May 6, 1976 in Amsterdam) is a Dutch football player. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_Nigeria. ... Strikers, also known as forwards and attackers, and formerly inside forwards, are the players on a team in football in the row nearest to the opposing teams goal, who are therefore principally responsible for scoring goals. ... Julius Aghahowa (born February 12, 1982 in Benin City, Nigeria) is a football striker from Nigeria who currently plays for Wigan Athletic in the English Premiership as a striker. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_Ecuador. ... The Midfield in relation to the football positions In association football, a midfielder is a player whose position of play is midway between the attacking strikers and the defenders (highlighted in blue on the diagram). ... Luis Antonio Valencia Mosquera (born August 4, 1985 in Nueva Loja, Sucumbios) is an Ecuadorian footballer who plays for Wigan Athletic after signing on two successive year loans after been granted a work permit, from Villarreal CF. Valencia was one of just three European-based players named in the Ecuador... Villarreal Club de Fútbol SAD, usually abbreviated to Villarreal, is a Spanish Primera División football club based in Vila-real, a small town in the province of Castellon. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_England. ... The Bolton players in white are defending - the nearest player is trying to prevent the Fulham forward in cyan from crossing the ball. ... Emmerson Orlando Boyce (born September 24, 1979 in Aylesbury) is an English footballer who plays for Wigan Athletic in the Premier League. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_Austria. ... The Midfield in relation to the football positions In association football, a midfielder is a player whose position of play is midway between the attacking strikers and the defenders (highlighted in blue on the diagram). ... Paul Josef Herbert Scharner (born March 11, 1980 in Scheibbs) is an Austrian footballer. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_England. ... The Bolton players in white are defending - the nearest player is trying to prevent the Fulham forward in cyan from crossing the ball. ... Titus Malachi Bramble (born July 21, 1981 in Ipswich, Suffolk) is an English football player, currently playing for Wigan Athletic in the FA Premier League. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_Cameroon. ... The Bolton players in white are defending - the nearest player is trying to prevent the Fulham forward in cyan from crossing the ball. ... Salomon René Olembé-Olembé (born December 8, 1980 in Yaoundé) is a Cameroonian football player who, as of 2005, is playing for Olympique de Marseille. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_Poland. ... The Midfield in relation to the football positions In association football, a midfielder is a player whose position of play is midway between the attacking strikers and the defenders (highlighted in blue on the diagram). ... Tomasz Cywka (born 27 June 1988) is a Polish footballer currently plying his trade in the Polish lower leagues with Gwarek Zabrze Following a successful week-long trial at Wigan Athletic the Polish under 21 international earned himself a move to the Premier League, signing a three year contract in... Image File history File links Flag_of_Wales_2. ... Strikers, also known as forwards and attackers, and formerly inside forwards, are the players on a team in football in the row nearest to the opposing teams goal, who are therefore principally responsible for scoring goals. ... David Rhys George Best Cotterill (born 4 December 1987 in Cardiff) is a Welsh footballer who currently plays as a striker for Wigan Athletic. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_England. ... Strikers, also known as forwards and attackers, and formerly inside forwards, are the players on a team in football in the row nearest to the opposing teams goal, who are therefore principally responsible for scoring goals. ... Marcus Nathan Bent (born 19 May 1978 in Hammersmith, England) is an English footballer, who in a short career has managed to play for several different professional sides. ... Charlton Athletic Football Club (also known as The Addicks) is a professional football club based in Charlton, in the London Borough of Greenwich. ... Image File history File links This is a lossless scalable vector image. ... The Midfield in relation to the football positions In association football, a midfielder is a player whose position of play is midway between the attacking strikers and the defenders (highlighted in blue on the diagram). ... Josip Skoko (born December 10, 1975 in Mount Gambier, Australia) is an Australian football midfielder of Croatian descent who plays for Wigan Athletic in the Premier League. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_the_Netherlands. ... The Bolton players in white are defending - the nearest player is trying to prevent the Fulham forward in cyan from crossing the ball. ... Mario Melchiot (born November 4, 1976 in Amsterdam) is a Dutch football defender who currently plays for Wigan Athletic in the English Premier League. ... The team captain of a football team, sometimes known as the skipper, is a team member chosen to be the on-pitch leader of the team: it is often one of the older or more experienced members of the squad, or a player that can heavily influence a game. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_the_Netherlands. ... The Midfield in relation to the football positions In association football, a midfielder is a player whose position of play is midway between the attacking strikers and the defenders (highlighted in blue on the diagram). ... Rachid Bouaouzan (born 20 February 1984) is a Dutch-Moroccan football player who currently plays for Wigan Athletic. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_Poland. ... Strikers, also known as forwards and attackers, and formerly inside forwards, are the players on a team in football in the row nearest to the opposing teams goal, who are therefore principally responsible for scoring goals. ... Tomasz Kupisz (pronounced TOM-ash KOOH-peesh), born 2 January 1990 in Radom, Poland, is a Polish footballer (midfielder) who plays for Wigan Athletic reserves. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_England. ... The Midfield in relation to the football positions In association football, a midfielder is a player whose position of play is midway between the attacking strikers and the defenders (highlighted in blue on the diagram). ... Peter Moore (born 11 January 1957) was an Australian rules footballer for Collingwood and Melbourne in the Australian Football League. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_England. ... The Midfield in relation to the football positions In association football, a midfielder is a player whose position of play is midway between the attacking strikers and the defenders (highlighted in blue on the diagram). ... Lewis Montrose (born November 17, 1988) is a footballer, currently playing for Wigan Athletic. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_England. ... A football goalkeeper leaves the ground to parry a shot on goal In many team sports, a goalkeeper (termed goaltender, netminder, goalie, or keeper in some sports) is a designated player that is charged with directly preventing the opposite team from scoring by defending the goal. ... Russell Saunders is a Goalkeeper for Wigan Athletic F.C.. After coming through the youth ranks at Latics, he was given a professional contract at the end of the 06/07 season. ...

Out on loan

No. Position Player 7 FW Henri Camara (on loan to West Ham United) –– DF Andy Webster (on loan to Rangers)

For recent transfers, see List of English football transfers 2007-08. Image File history File links Flag_of_Senegal. ... Strikers, also known as forwards and attackers, and formerly inside forwards, are the players on a team in football in the row nearest to the opposing teams goal, who are therefore principally responsible for scoring goals. ... Henri Camara (born May 10, 1977 in Dakar, Senegal) is a Senegalese footballer who is on loan at West Ham United, from Wigan Athletic of the English FA Premier League. ... West Ham United Football Club is an English football club based in West Ham, London Borough of Newham, East London, and have played their home matches at the 35,146 capacity Boleyn Ground stadium since 1904. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_Scotland. ... The Bolton players in white are defending - the nearest player is trying to prevent the Fulham forward in cyan from crossing the ball. ... Andrew Neil Webster (born April 23, 1982 in Dundee) is a Scottish professional footballer currently playing for Rangers in the Scottish Premier League, on loan from Wigan Athletic. ... For other uses, see Rangers F.C. (disambiguation). ... This is a list of English football transfers for the 2007–08 season. ...

Management

• Manager: Steve Bruce
• Assistant Manager: Eric Black
• General Manager: John Benson
• First Team Coach: Frank Barlow
• Reserve Team Manager: Keith Bertschin
• Youth Team Coach: David Lowe
• Goalkeeping Coach: Gary Walsh
• First Team Fitness Coach: Joey Gallanagh
• Physio: Alex Cribley
• Physio: Neil Fitzhenry
• Kit Manager: Alan Jackson

Stephen Roger Bruce (born December 31, 1960, in Corbridge, near Hexham in England) is a British football manager currently in charge of Birmingham City. ... Eric Black (born 1 October 1963 in Bellshill, Lanarkshire) is a former professional football player who played for Aberdeen and Metz. ... John Benson (born in Arbroath, December 23, 1942) was a Scottish football player and manager. ... Frank Charles Barlow (born 15th October, 1946) is currently the Assistant Manager to Phil Parkinson at Hull City football club. ... Keith Edwin Bertschin (born 25 August 1956 in Enfield) is a former professional footballer and current reserve team coach at Birmingham City. ... For other persons named David Lowe, see David Lowe (disambiguation). ... Gary Walsh began his career at Manchester United, working his way to the top through the clubs hugely successful youth policy. ...

Honours

Titles and positions

• Football League Championship runners-up: 1
  

2004/2005

• Football League Second Division champions: 1
  

2002/2003

• Football League Third Division champions: 1
  

1996/1997

• Football League Trophy winners: 2
  

1984/1985, 1998/1999

• Northern Premier League champions: 2
  

1970/1971, 1974/1975

• Northern Premier Cup winners: 1
  

1971/1972

• Northern Premier Shield winners: 3
  

1972/1973, 1973/1974, 1975/1976

• Lancashire Combination champions: 4
  

1947/1948, 1950/1951, 1952/1953, 1953/1954

• Cheshire League champions: 4
  

1933/1934, 1934/1935, 1935/1936, 1964/1965

• Football League Cup runners-up: 1
  

2005/2006

The Football League Championship (often referred to as The Championship for short, or the Coca-Cola Football League Championship for sponsorship reasons) is the highest division of The Football League and second-highest division overall in the English football league system after the Premier League. ... From 1892 until 1992, the Football League Second Division was the second highest division overall in English football. ... From the 1992-93 to the 2003-04 season, the Football League Third Division was the third-highest division of The Football League and the fourth-highest division in the overall English football league system. ... The Football League Trophy is the generic name of an English football competition for clubs in the two lower divisions of The Football League and, in some seasons, the leading sides in the Conference National. ... The Northern Premier League logo. ... // Time Line The County of Lancashire. ... The Football League Cup, commonly known as the League Cup, is an English football competition. ...

Other achievements

• Football League Fourth Division: Promoted in 1981/1982
• FA Cup: Best performance: 6th Round 1986/1987
• Elected to Football League 1978

The Football League Fourth Division or Division Four of The Football League was the fourth-highest division in the English football league system from the 1958-59 season until the creation of the FA Premier League prior to the 1992-93 season. ... This article is about the English FA Cup. ... The Football League is a league competition featuring professional football clubs from England and Wales, and is the oldest such competition in world football. ...

Records

• Record League victory, 7-1 vs. Scarborough, 11 March 1997
• Record League defeat, 0-6 vs. Bristol Rovers, 3 March 1990
• Highest attendance, 25,023 vs. Liverpool, 11 February 2006
• Most League appearances, 317, Kevin Langley 1981-1994
• Most League goals scored, total, 70, Andy Liddell 1998-2003
• Most goals scored, season, 31, Graeme Jones 1996/1997
• Record Cup Run, Carling Cup Final vs Manchester United, 2006

On 18 August 2007 Wigan Athletic sat proudly at the top of the Premier League after beating Sunderland 3-0 at the JJB Stadium. This was the first and at present, the only time the club have achieved the feat. Scarborough Football Club were an English football team based in the seaside resort of Scarborough, North Yorkshire. ... is the 70th day of the year (71st in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... For the band, see 1997 (band). ... For details of the current season, see Bristol Rovers F.C. season 2007-08 Bristol Rovers Football Club is an English professional football team, based in Bristol. ... is the 62nd day of the year (63rd in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 1990 (MCMXC) was a common year starting on Monday (link displays the 1990 Gregorian calendar). ... Liverpool Football Club are an English professional football club based in Liverpool, Merseyside, who play in the Premier League; they are historically the most successful club in the history of English football, having won more trophies than any other English club. ... is the 42nd day of the year in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2006 (MMVI) was a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ... Andy Liddell is a Scottish forward who currently plays for Oldham Athletic A.F.C. He was born June 28, 1973. ... The Football League Cup, commonly known as the League Cup, is an English football competition. ... Manchester Uniteds emblem Manchester United F.C. (often abbreviated to Man United or just Man U, pronounced man-yoo) is an English football club based at Old Trafford in Greater Manchester. ...

Three weeks later Emile Heskey won his 44th International cap as England overcame Israel 3-0 at Wembley Stadium, in a Euro 2008 qualifing match. Heskey became the first Wigan Athletic player to win an England cap whilst playing for the club

References

• Brief history of Wigan Athletic. Retrieved on December 5, 2005.

is the 339th day of the year (340th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2005 (MMV) was a common year starting on Saturday (link displays full calendar) of the Gregorian calendar. ...

Notes

Year 2006 (MMVI) was a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 363rd day of the year (364th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2007 (MMVII) is the current year, a common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar and the AD/CE era in the 21st century. ... is the 246th day of the year (247th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ...

External links

Wikimedia Commons has media related to:

Wigan Athletic F.C.

• Official website
• Premierleague.com - Wigan Athletic
• PremierLatics.net
• Wigan Athletic at the Open Directory Project

• Wigan Athletic F.C. on BBC Sport: Club News - Recent results - Upcoming fixtures - Club stats
• Ye Olde Tree and Crown
• WAFC Online
• LISA - Independent Supporters Association
• Wigan.no - Wigan's Norwegian fan club
• Wigan Kit History
• Wiganer.net Top supporters site
• Wigan Athletic - Beer, Birds & Football - A Fan Blog