Whelan hails Martinez

Chairman backs manager for bright future

Last updated: 22nd August 2009   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Whelan hails Martinez

Martinez: Backed by Whelan

Related links

Teams

Also see

Wigan chairman Dave Whelan has tipped Roberto Martinez to one day take charge of a leading club in Europe.

The Spanish tactician is regarded as one of the best young managers in the business following a successful spell with Swansea.

Whelan expects him to do well with Wigan over the next few years and then move on to an even bigger job.

The Latics chairman thinks Martinez has the potential to end up at one of the top clubs in England but would also relish the opportunity to take on a new challenge in Europe.

"I can see him going to a top four club or, more likely, a leading club in Europe in about four or five years," Whelan said in the Daily Mirror.

"His language skills are huge, the lad is sharp and bright, he is meticulous and pays attention to every detail.

"I go to see the training a couple of days a week and he is great at what he does. He wants players to think about what they are doing and listen to him."

United regret

Meanwhile, Whelan has admitted he was wrong to pass up the chance to buy a controlling stake in Manchester United 20 years ago.

Whelan agreed a deal with then United chairman Martin Edwards but quickly changed his mind due to fears that rival supporters would turn against his JJB Sports empire.

Looking back at the opportunity, he told the Daily Mail: "I should have done it, no question.

"I would have got a controlling interest in the biggest club in the world for £11m.

"I thought towns like London, Liverpool and Leeds wouldn't take kindly to me being involved with Manchester United and JJB Sports. I was probably wrong."

Click Here for Your Free Bet