Whelan quits as Wigan chairman

Wigan have announced that Dave Whelan has resigned as the club’s chairman, with his 23-year-old grandson David Sharpe replacing him in the role.

The 78-year-old, who bought the club 20 years ago, will continue to own the club but will no longer have a hands-on role.

In a statement on the club’s official website, Whelan said: “The time has now come to hand over the reins. I am approaching 80 years old and spend an increasingly long time abroad, and cannot make it to games. It is a decision I have been mulling over for some years and I believe David is now ready.”

Thank you for the memories Mr Whelan! - http://t.co/9DRveB5QAM #wafc pic.twitter.com/TvD5uC3YcN

— Wigan Athletic (@LaticsOfficial) March 3, 2015