Gary Caldwell admits 'great sadness' at leaving Wigan
Thursday 27 October 2016 21:03, UK
Gary Caldwell has released a statement expressing his "great sadness" that he was not given the time to finish the job he started at Wigan.
The 34-year-old former defender led the Latics to the League One title last season in his first managerial position.
However, a poor start to the season saw him pick up just two wins in 14 matches and he paid the price on Tuesday when he was axed with the club second-from-bottom in the table.
"I am obviously incredibly disappointed to be leaving Wigan Athletic after more than seven years at the club," said Caldwell.
"Having led the team to promotion in my first full season in charge as manager I was hopeful of being given the time necessary to turn results around and so it is with great sadness that I will now not be able to finish the job I started.
"I am fully aware that the results recently haven't been good enough but having not lost by more than one goal all season, I truly believed that we were not far away from getting things right and turning the corner.
"During my time at the club, both as a player and a manager, I've experienced some amazing highs and some crushing lows both personally and professionally. However, it is those experiences, both good and bad, that have helped to make my time at the club so special and I will always hold Wigan Athletic close to my heart.
"As a player, there are a number of moments that will stay with me forever. I will always remember the games at Stoke and Blackburn that led to us staying up in the Premier League as well as beating Manchester United, Chelsea and Arsenal and scoring the winning goal at Anfield. On top of those great matches, being involved in the squad for the FA Cup Final and then lifting the trophy was a truly magical and proud moment for all of us.
"There were lows too that were tough to take, including the injuries that I suffered during my playing days as well as relegation from the Premier League. However, I enjoyed every minute and feel lucky to have forged bonds and friendships with team mates and staff alike over the years that will last with me forever.
"It was Wigan who enabled me to start my coaching career, firstly with the academy before then becoming manager, and I will therefore always hold a huge debt of gratitude to the chairman for giving me the opportunity to become manager and for entrusting me to start rebuilding the club from what was its lowest point in recent history.
"The celebrations we all enjoyed at Blackpool last season upon getting promoted were fantastic moments and were a reward for all the hard work everyone at the club put in. Following that, I genuinely believe that there is a great squad of players at the club and I am sure they will continue to give everything they have to progress this season.
"From a personal perspective, I am still very young in coaching terms and am hungry to succeed. I believe that all of the experiences of the past 18 months will help me in that quest. Finally, last but definitely not least, a huge thank you to the Latics faithful, whose support over the years has meant the world to me."
