Whelan rumoured to be winding down Wigan interest

Dave Whelan is transferring ownership of Wigan's stadium to the football club within the next six weeks.

By doing so the Latics chairman is leaving himself open to suggestions he is winding down his affairs.

He bought the club in 1995 when they were in the old fourth division. Last season they finished 11th in the Premier League.

Whelan has also extended rugby league side Wigan Warriors' lease to 50 years.

He said: "I am not a spring chicken anymore. I am 73 this year so I have got to look at who is taking over from me. I have got to protect this stadium and I have got to protect Wigan Athletic.

"I have also increased Wigan Warriors' lease to 50 years, so I am protecting the rugby league team as well.

"From August 1 this ground is going to be called the DW Stadium and I am placing the ownership into the hands of Wigan Athletic. That will take place over the next four to six weeks."

Whelan has been alarmed at the negative response from Latics fans at the proposal to name one of the stands after rugby league star Billy Boston.

He said: "There are a lot of complaints coming into Wigan Athletic from our supporters because we are calling one of the stands the Boston Stand.

"That is wrong. I think it is only fair on the stands is named after a legend like Billy Boston.

"Too many people say I will never go and watch Wigan RL or I will never go and watch Wigan Athletic. We are not a big town and we have two fabulous clubs. We should support them both, like I do."

Whelan yesterday unveiled Roberto Martinez as the club's new manager on a three-year contract following his departure from Swansea.