Martinez committed to Wigan

Martinez committed to Wigan

Roberto Martinez: A top target of Aston Villa before the appointed Alex McLeish

Wigan manager Roberto Martinez has not reached any agreement with club chairman Dave Whelan which will allow him to leave the DW Stadium at the end of the season.

Prior to Wednesday night's historic win over Premier League table-topping Manchester United, reports had suggested the 38-year-old would in the summer seek a new challenge.

But Martinez maintains he is already almost 12 months into a new three-year contract which was signed to replace a previous deal which was set to expire at the conclusion of the 2011/12 campaign.

And despite near escapes from relegation since taking over at Wigan in 2009, th e former Swansea boss is certain he can see himself staying beyond this summer.

"I have said Roberto will go to one of the big clubs in Europe or the UK. He is a high-quality manager and a gentleman."
Dave WhelanQuotes of the week

"I heard that and I was very surprised," said Martinez in The Times about the rumours of his exit. "You wonder where that rumour is coming from.

"There is nothing true about it. I agreed a new deal here last summer."

Honest

Whelan has always given 100 per cent backing to former Wigan player Martinez, who last summer was Aston Villa's top target before they appointed Alex McLeish.

And the Wigan chairman remains fully supportive of his club's manager as they again fight to stay out of the relegation.

"I will stick with Roberto Martinez for as long as I can," said Whelan.

"I have said Roberto will go to one of the big clubs in Europe or the UK. He is a high-quality manager and a gentleman.

"He is 100 per cent honest and I have great admiration for him."