Wigan Athletic have become the first English professional football club to enter administration after the pandemic has had a “significant impact” on their finances.
A statement said that Paul Stanley, Gerald Krasner and Dean Watson of Begbies Traynor have now been appointed as joint administrators.
Krasner, former chairman of Leeds United and now a partner at Begbies Traynor, added: “Our immediate objectives are to ensure the club completes all its fixtures this season and to urgently find interested parties to save Wigan Athletic FC and the jobs of the people who work for the club.
“Obviously the suspension of the Championship season due to Covid-19 has had a significant impact on the recent fortunes of the club.
“Wigan Athletic has been a focal point and source of pride for the town since 1932 and anyone who is interested in buying this historic sporting institution should contact the joint administrators directly.”
The Lactics are 14th in the Championships and have just six games to play. The club reported in the year ending 30 June 2019, a net loss of £9.2m in their recent annual accounts.
Stanley said, “We understand that everybody connected with the club and the wider football world is seeking clarity on the future of Wigan Athletic.
“That’s exactly what we are seeking to provide as we move through this process and we seek out interested parties to rescue this famous old club here in the region.
“It is a fast-moving situation and we will provide updates on key developments.”
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