Martinez named Wigan manager

LONDON (Reuters) - Former Wigan Athletic player Roberto Martinez has agreed to become the Premier League club's new manager, chairman Dave Whelan said on Tuesday.

Former manager Steve Bruce left Wigan last week to take over at Sunderland and Whelan immediately identified Swansea boss Martinez as his number one choice to replace him.

The 35-year-old Spaniard, who played almost 200 games for Wigan between 1995 and 2001, spent two-and-a-half years in charge of Swansea, winning promotion to the Championship (second division) in his first full season.

The clubs agreed a compensation deal last week and after further discussions, Whelan told Sky Sports News: "I'm very excited about securing the services of Roberto Martinez. I hold him in the highest regard.

"We will meet (on Wednesday) to discuss, amongst other things, finding transfer funds for new players."

Wigan are expected to make an official announcement on the appointment on Wednesday.

(Editing by Ed Osmond)