Tuesday 3 March 2015 17:48, UK
Everton manager Roberto Martinez has paid tribute to former boss Dave Whelan following his resignation as chairman of Wigan.
Martinez was Latics manager under Whelan from June 2009- May 2013 before taking over at Goodison Park.
The pair guided the club to FA Cup glory in 2013 and Martinez feels Whelan’s contribution in taking the club from the lower leagues into the Premier League has increased the profile of Wigan as a club and a town.
“He has made an incredible contribution in the game and I have been privileged to see first-hand how a successful and driven football man has given so much to the town,” said Martinez.
“He has created an incredible example for football. (He showed) any professional football club could have the dream of playing in the Premier League and winning a major trophy.
“He showed us the way to do that and his is an incredible footballing story.
“I am sure he is going to inspire many generations to come but it is a bit of a shock to hear (the news).
“It will be a shame for Mr Whelan not to be involved in football but I am sure his influence and legacy will be around for a long, long time.
“I am sure there will people ready to carry on that legacy of what he has brought into the town and football in general.”
