SA Footy

Wigan Athletic chairman Dave Whelan has told Sky Sports News that Steve Bruce has been confirmed as the club's new manager, and that they must pay £3million in compensation to Birmingham.



The Latics have been on the lookout for a successor to Chris Hutchings, and Whelan has revealed that Bruce has taken over at The JJB Stadium.


Bruce, who had been at the Blues helm for just under six years, is set to lead his new side out at Emirates Stadium on Saturday as they take on Arsenal.



Assistant Black


Whelan previously spoke of his hopes to appoint Bruce as the club's new manager earlier on Monday.


Whelan was also keen to bring assistant manager Eric Black; however reports suggest he is set to stay at St Andrews, at least for the time being.


His future at Birmingham has been the subject of speculation for some time because of prospective new owner Carson Yeung's refusal to ratify a new contract which had been on the table since the end of last season.


The former Manchester United defender had a brief spell in charge of Wigan in 2001, and Whelan will be hoping he can turn the club's fortunes around following a poor start to the season.

the club have targeted some big names to fill in the managers position.

sad to see Bruce go, he did a very good job while in charge and im sure Wigan will go close to getting out of relegation, especially now they will also be spending up big in January transfer period.

The deal has apparently been held up by the Blues over Bruce's plans to take Black with him to the JJB. Wigan had planned to unveil Bruce as manager today (Wed), but due to 'unforseen circumstances' (ie Bruce wanting to take Black with him despite Black being interim manager at Birmingham) the deal has been delayed.

It will get done soon enough no doubt, but Wigan wanted Bruce at the helm for Sunday which probably wont be possible now.

Other rumors are that Bruce will be given a 15m quid kitty in Jan to ensure the club stays in the top flight.

its funny how a few teams seem to change managers, or have a new managers or a caretaker the weekend they play the Arsenal.

wigan to cause a major upset!!!!!