Hull boss hails Wigan Athletic's 'great achievement' in staying up

McCann was speaking immediately after seeing his side record a 3-1 victory that secured an immediate return to the Championship - with the League One title to boot.

But having witnessed the incredible events over the last 12 months - including his own side's 8-0 defeat at the DW at the end of last season - McCann was delighted to see Latics win their own seasonal battle and avoiding back-to-back relegations.

"Leam's a great lad, and I think he's done an unbelievable job this season," said McCann.

"Speaking to some of the Wigan staff today...some of the stories they've been saying about what's been going on...players walking off the training ground and it's been sold, and they didn't even know about it.

"These things are just incredible to have to deal with as a manager, I'm sure.

"And I think the best thing Wigan could have done in the circumstances, to settle everyone down, is to give Leam the job on a permanent basis.

"Over the last few weeks you've seen just how consistent they've been, and you saw again today they are a really good team.

"I am genuinely pleased they've stayed up, because I know Leam personally, my assistant manager here did his Pro Licence with him, and he said only good things about him.

"It's his first role in management, he's managed to keep them up against all the odds, which is an absolutely tremendous feat.

"And I'm sure under the new owners there, with some decent additions, they'll have a real push at it next season.

"Credit to everyone at Wigan for everything they've done, it's a really great achievement."

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