Hutchings takes leave of Wigan

English Premier League side Wigan Athletic FC have announced the departure of manager Chris Hutchings.

Promotion
The 50-year-old former Bradford City AFC manager joined Wigan in 2001 as Paul Jewell's assistant and the pair lifted them into the top-flight for the first time for 2005/06. Hutchings was promoted after Jewell's departure but six consecutive defeats have left them in the relegation zone, 18th in the 20-team table. Assistant Frank Barlow has taken caretaker charge starting with Sunday's trip to Tottenham Hotspur FC.

'Critical to act'
Chairman Dave Whelan said: "Having been so close to the team and such a big part of the success, I felt Chris deserved to be given the chance to take over as No1 last summer and receive full backing from myself and the board to shape the team as he wished. However, it is crucial for the development of Wigan Athletic that we maintain our Premier League status this season and following results and performances in recent matches, we feel it is critical to act now."