Martinez welcomes job security

Martinez: Appreciates that he is in a privileged position

Roberto Martinez has been assured by Wigan owner Dave Whelan that there is no threat to his post.

There is still a chance that the Latics could slip out of the Premier League this season, with a 4-2 defeat to Sunderland on Saturday dropping them back into the relegation zone.

They have just four games in which to steer a path to safety, with the battle to avoid the drop set up for a thrilling climax.

“He has said to me that whatever happens I’m going to stay until the end of my contract in 2012.”
Roberto Martinez Quotes of the week

Martinez is in the fortunate position of knowing that whatever happens to his side, he will still be in a job next season.

That cannot be said for many managers struggling at the wrong end of the table, but the Latics believe stability is the key to long-term success.

“I’m privileged, I’ve always said that,” admitted Martinez.

“My chairman is unique. He’s very demanding and ruthless when he has to be, but he allows you to work.

Support

“He has said to me that whatever happens I’m going to stay until the end of my contract in 2012.

“That allows me to work long term and gives me and the club stability.”

Martinez, who penned a three-year deal with Wigan in the summer of 2009, added: “The players also know that, whatever happens, they have to put up with me next season.

“Dave Whelan has given me his full support in the time I have been manager and I’m going to go that extra mile to make him happy and proud.

“For Wigan to be in the Premier League for six or seven years is a story that comes from the chairman.

“We’ll carry that on together and I want to take Wigan to the next level.”