Friday evening update from the Wigan Athletic administrators post-EFL hearing

While the club was fighting to overturn its 12-point deduction at an independent hearing, attempts to find a buyer remained ongoing, with speculation surrounding the future of manager Paul Cook - who is understood to have resigned - also continuing.

The statement read:

1. Appeal against the 12-point penalty given to the club for being in administration

The appeal commenced at 9am today (31 July) before an independent tribunal. Joint administrators Paul Stanley and Gerald Krasner both gave witness statements and were cross-examined. The appeal concluded with judgement reserved and a further update will be given when the outcome of this appeal is known.

2. Supporters' financial support

The joint administrators would like to thank the club’s supporters, who have made a further financial contribution this week, to enable the payment of staff wages today (31 July).

3. The sale of the club

The joint administrators have had further detailed talks with bidders, which are likely to continue over the course of this weekend and the early part of next week.

4. Player sales

The joint administrators are continuing to consider offers for players in order to reduce the substantial wage bill and to benefit the football creditors who are estimated to be owed in the region of £6m. This is deemed crucial to the successful sale of the club.

5. The investigation

The joint administrators confirm that, at their request, Mr Au Yeung has had a zoom meeting with Mr Krasner. This meeting lasted over an hour and the information provided by Mr Au Yeung assisted with the arguments presented in the appeal against the 12-point deduction. The investigation is continuing. The joint administrators wish to reiterate their thanks to the players, staff and supporters of the club as well as the people of Wigan, who have been resoundingly supportive of their efforts to secure the club’s future.