Dave Whelan: 'I'll interview 14 or 15 for Wigan Athletic job'

Wigan Athletic chairman Dave Whelan has revealed that he plans to interview around 15 candidates for the vacant managerial post, with an appointment targeted for later this week.

A whole host of coaches have been mentioned as potential replacements for Roberto Martinez, including Gus Poyet, Rene Meulensteen and Owen Coyle.

Whelan returned from a holiday in Barbados last weekend and has revealed that the job is still very much up for grabs, with the chairman targeting a swift appointment.

He told The Sun: "I am starting interviewing. I've got probably 14 to 15 to do this week and I want somebody appointed within the week.

"He's got one job and that is to get Wigan Athletic promoted. We have a lot to do before next season when we have a lot of matches.

"I've got people in my mind but it's not closed, you never know who comes later. It's amazing how many people want to manage Wigan Athletic."

A busy season in the Championship for Wigan will also include a maiden Europa League campaign, with a Community Shield clash with Manchester United first up in August.