Wigan Athletic chief confirms striker departure

The 32-year-old - Latics' top scorer this season with seven goals - was left out of the squad to face Bristol Rovers on Tuesday night.

Wigan Today understands he has requested a release from his contract, which has been reluctantly granted by the club.

And Richardson expects the news to be confirmed in the next day or so.

"I'm led to believe he's come to an agreement with the administrators that he can leave the club," said Richardson after the 0-0 draw against the Pirates.

"It's ongoing at the minute, and I'm sure the club will release a statement with Joe himself as well.

"Obviously in the position we're in - with all the players we've already lost - it leaves us with a skeleton staff.

"Joe's got goals in him, he's very experienced, he knows his way round a football field.To lose him, of course, is a big blow.

"But if he does go, we all wish him well, because he's been a great servant to this club.

"We found out at the beginning of the week, after the weekend.

"Conversations have taken place between him and the administrators, it's been mutually agreed.

Garner would join former Latics colleagues Danny Fox and Anthony Pilkington in moving to India.

His departure leaves Latics light in terms of striking options, but Callum Lang is expected to return from his loan spell at Motherwell in January.

Read unlimited Wigan Athletic and Wigan Warriors stories for less than 70p a week by subscribing to our sports package here​