Wigan Athletic provide head coach hint and confirm another exit as fall-out from Ryan Lowe sacking continues
Wigan Athletic have reiterated their desire to make a ‘swift appointment’ to replace Ryan Lowe as head coach – while ensuring the successful candidate ‘gets’ who we are.
As the fall-out to Lowe’s departure continues, Latics have confirmed Mike Garrity – who was added to the coaching staff last month – has also left the club.
And the eagerly-awaited fans’ forum – scheduled for Wednesday – has been postponed, as ‘it is imperative the new head coach is able to attend the event, address supporters, and share our collective vision for the future, together’.
In the meantime, Graham Barrow and Glenn Whelan have been placed in temporary charge, with the side having dropped into the League One relegation zone at the weekend.
"First of all, a huge thank you to those who travelled to Peterborough United on Saturday,” the statement read. “Saturday’s fixture saw one of the heaviest defeats in our recent history, and this was completely unacceptable. We know the time, cost, and effort it takes to follow the team, especially on the road, and our supporters deserve better for their dedication and commitment.
"We are very aware of and concerned about our current league position, and our full attention is on improving the situation. We believe in this squad of players, and collectively, we know that we are a better team than what our current league position suggests.
"It was evident that a change of direction is required to affect our recent run of form and league predicament. At this time, it is also appropriate to announce that Mike Garrity has also departed the club. We thank Mike for his efforts over the past month.
"The recruitment process for a new head coach is already underway. We would like to make a swift appointment to ensure the new head coach has the best possible opportunity to make the desired impact between now and the end of the 2025/26 League One season.
"As such, we can confirm that the board has decided to postpone Wednesday’s fans' forum. We understand the importance of ensuring that our supporters' voices are heard, particularly after what's been a challenging few months for everyone connected to the football club.
"In addition to ensuring the club's undivided attention is on finding the right man to lead Wigan Athletic forward, the board feels that it is imperative that the new head coach is able to attend the event, address supporters, and share our collective vision for the future, together.
"Wigan Athletic is a special football club, with a unique identity and DNA. It is vital that our new head coach 'gets' who we are, and it is a priority that the connection between the supporters and new head coach is built from day one as we head into a new era.
"The new date for the fans' forum will be communicated in due course, and all tickets for Wednesday's event will remain valid. The fans' forum will be recorded and shared post-event, to ensure every supporter has the ability to watch, wherever they may be.
"For now, we look ahead to the very important fixture against Reading at the Brick Community Stadium. We need to stick together as one, and we know you’ll be behind Graham, Glenn, the staff, and the players all the way.”