Wigan Athletic confirm departure of manager Steve Bruce

Wigan Athletic have confirmed that manager Steve Bruce has left the club, to take up a post at Sunderland AFC.  A compensation fee has been agreed between the two clubs, freeing Bruce to move to the Stadium of Light. The deal also includes Assistant Manager, Eric Black.

The search for a new manager has started in earnest.

Club Chairman Dave Whelan said the news is very disappointing, but in football, you have to learn to embrace change.

"Everyone associated with Wigan Athletic is devastated that Steve and Eric have gone, we would be lying if we said any different," said Whelan, "but things can change very quickly and I have always said I would not stand in anyone's way who wishes to leave the club, as long as the terms are in the best interest of Wigan Athletic."

"What Steve has achieved here over the past 18 months has been magnificent. After a period of instability, he put the team in order and started laying the foundations for a prosperous future.

"We finished in our second highest ever league position this season and this is something we will be looking to build upon going forward.

"As for a new manager, we have several options to consider and we will be talking to clubs and candidates over the next seven days.  We will not rush the appointment as it is a decision not to be taken lightly.

"We will make a statement when an appointment has been made."