The former Hibs man has come into the club as an ex-Hearts, Aston Villa and Sheffield Wednesday figure goes the other way.
An ex Hibs star has been named the manager of an English Football League club - as a former Hearts man exits.
Gary Caldwell has returned to the Wigan Athletic head coach role, a position he held at the start of his managerial career a decade ago. He’s most recently been boss of Exeter City in League One and work there on a tight budget has convinced the Latics to hire their FA Cup-winning hero and former boss, as they also sit in the third tier.
Caldwell had two spells at Hibs at the start of his playing career before featuring for Celtic, Wigan and Scotland. His arrival comes with Glenn Whelan departing, with the former Hearts, Aston Villa and Sheffield Wednesday midfielder holding the fort as interim boss, following Ryan Lowe’s exit. He had been a coach at Wigan but now makes way following new management’s arrival.
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Who is the new manager of Wigan?
A Wigan statement on ex-Hibee Caldwell and former Hearts, Aston Villa and Sheffield Wednesday midfielder Whelan reads: “Following agreement of compensation with Exeter City, Wigan Athletic are delighted to announce the return of Gary Caldwell as the Club's new Head Coach.
“Arriving on the back of a successful spell with the Grecians, Caldwell will be embarking on his second spell in the dugouts at the Brick Community Stadium, having previously guided the Club to the 2015/16 Sky Bet League One title. The 43-year-old's return marks an exciting new chapter for the Football Club. With his homecoming, Caldwell will be hoping to bring back the proud values, identity and ambition that have long defined Wigan Athletic.
“A popular figure amongst supporters, Caldwell's connection with Latics is undeniable. After signing from Celtic in 2010, he made over 100 appearances in Latics colours, and captained the side during one of the most remarkable periods in the Club's history - leading the team to several Premier League Great Escapes and lifting the Emirates FA Cup at Wembley in May 2013.
Why did Gary Caldwell leave Exeter City?
“The former Scotland international has a profound understanding of the Club's culture and ethos, and will be looking to build on his already strong relationship with the supporters. He has grown from strength to strength as a coach in recent years, achieving real success at St James Park. The Board believes this appointment represents a step forward - reconnecting the Club’s proud past with an ambitious future. We can confirm that Assistant Head Coach Glenn Whelan and First-Team Coach Nicky Adams have departed the Football Club. We thank both Glenn and Nicky for their efforts and wish them well in the future.”
Laurence Overend, interim Exeter City Board Chair, said: “On behalf of everyone at Exeter City, I would like to thank Gary for his efforts, leadership and commitment over the last few seasons. He has represented our club with great passion and professionalism and has helped shape our team in a challenging and competitive division.
“During his time as manager Gary has been fully committed to Exeter City, supporting the Club both on the pitch and within the community, where he has been a visible and enthusiastic presence. The club acknowledges the strong progress made during Gary’s tenure and recognises the positive connection he has forged with supporters, staff and players alike. He has also embraced and been a powerful advocate in support of our ownership model. We wish him all the best for the future."
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