Government to launch review following Wigan Athletic's administration

It has today responded to an online petition which was set-up calling for the 'need for a statutory owners and directors test in football'.

A supporter-led review will be held to try and protect football clubs from following the same fate as Latics, which has been under the control of administrators since July 1.

The Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport wrote to those who signed the petition, saying: "The Government has committed to a fan-led review of football governance, which will include consideration of the Owners’ and Directors’ Test. We will engage with all the football authorities, including the EFL, during this review.

"The Government is currently deciding on the scope and structure of the review but can confirm that engagement with fan groups will be central to the review process. It is vital that fans’ perspectives and interests are at the heart of the review."

Wigan Athletic's move into administration came less than a month after a change of ownership and caught many by surprise. A subsequent 12-point penalty relegated them to League One and last night, the club's future was threatened by a deadline imposed by the administrators for the new owners to be in place.

"The Government is aware of the serious allegations that have surfaced around the club and we will continue to engage with the English Football League (EFL) to fully understand the facts of the case as they emerge," the statement continued.

"Football clubs have a unique social value; it is vital they are protected.

"Wigan Athletic is a club with a rich history and of great importance to the local community."

The petition will be considered for debate in parliament if it reaches 100,000 signatures and can be reached here