Wigan ramp up pursuit of rival EFL boss hours before Arsenal FA Cup clash

Wigan have strong interest in Exeter City boss Gary Caldwell, talkSPORT understands.

The Latics are looking for a new manager after sacking Ryan Lowe earlier in February.

Getty

Lowe was axed after a 6-1 defeat to Peterborough that leaves them under the very real threat of relegation to League Two.

Exeter’s Caldwell is now at the top of Wigan’s list to replace Lowe.

They currently sit 14th in League One, just eight points ahead of Wigan.

What did Caldwell say?

Caldwell oversaw a 0-0 draw with Northampton on Saturday, with fans chanting for him to stay in Devon.

After the match, he refused to be drawn into questions over his future.

Caldwell said: “It was amazing and I think the supporters are amazing at this football club with what they give in terms of backing. What they have done over the supporter ownership is fantastic.”

Who is in charge of Wigan?

The Latics have the small matter of an FA Cup trip to Arsenal to prepare for on Sunday.

Former Premier League star Glenn Whelan is in interim charge of the club until a permanent hire is made.

Whelan revealed he has spoken to former Republic of Ireland teammate, and Brentford boss, Keith Andrews, about how to prepare for the game.

Brentford recently drew 1-1 with the Gunners in a dent to their title charge.

Getty

Whelan told the Off The Ball podcast: “It’s the first thing I’ve done this morning. Especially with him and [fellow former Irish footballer, now Brentford’s set-piece coach] Stephen Rice on the set plays – we’re all pulling in the same direction.”

This will be the two clubs’ first meeting since the 2013/14 FA Cup semi-final.

After a 1-1 draw, Arsenal won the shootout 4-2 and current Gunners boss Mikel Arteta netted a penalty.

Wigan have a dismal record at Arsenal, however, having lost 10 of their 11 games in all competitions.

Their only victory came in April 2012 in the Premier League under Roberto Martinez.