Wigan Athletic have confirmed that have sacked Malky Mackay, after defeat to Derby County saw them slip ever closer to a place in League One.
The Latics enjoyed the best day in their history when they beat Manchester City in the FA Cup final back in May 2013, but were relegated from the Premier League just days after. This resulted in the departure of Roberto Martinez, who left to take over David Moyes at Everton, but his successor Owen Coyle didn’t last long and was replaced by former Brentford boss Uwe Rosler in December 2013.
The German initially impressed at the DW Stadium and led them to a fifth place finish in the Championship, but they were unable to earn an instant promotion to the top-flight when Queens Park Rangers eliminated them in the playoffs. Rosler wasn’t able to maintain this form heading into the 2014/15 campaign, and was sacked in November and eventually succeeded by Mackay.
This was a controversial decision due to the Scot being investigated by the Football Association after claims he sent texts of a homophobic, racist and sexist nature during his time in charge at Cardiff City. He did, however, have a reputation as one of the brightest young coaches around, certainly of those available at the time, so Dave Whelan felt it was a good appointment for the club.
It has not turned out that way, though, as the Latics have collected just 19 points from a possible 72 and, following the defeat to Derby, are now eight points adrift of safety with just 15 to play for. Speaking after this latest loss, chairman David Sharpe said: “This is a very difficult decision to make but I feel that, for the long term future of the club, there needs to be a change now. I wish Malky all the best.”
