Martinez explains Wigan loyalty

Wigan manager Roberto Martinez has broken his silence on why he turned down the chance to take over at Liverpool.

Martinez said he was more excited by his existing job and his unique relationship with Wigan chairman Dave Whelan confirmed his decision to stay.

The former Swansea manager recently signed a new three-year deal, despite battling against relegation in the past few seasons, and has lauded the relationship he has with the club and the owner.

The 39-year-old coach held extensive talks with Liverpool early in the summer following the departure of Kenny Daglish, but chose to remain at the DW Stadium.

“We must educate people,” Martinez told the Daily Mirror.

“In five or six years, we (Wigan) reap the benefits. Maybe I won’t be there then.

“But this is not why I stayed, when Liverpool made me an offer.”

Asked why he did stay, which in turn saw Liverpool hire Swansea’s Brendan Rodgers instead, Martinez insisted it was because of the support and persuasiveness of chairman Dave Whelan that they could take Wigan to the ‘next level’.

“I stayed because my chairman is unique,” Martinez said.

“This summer, we sat down together. He had thought about the future of the club, I’d done the same.

“He knew that I had spoken with other clubs. But he is so persuasive… I extended my contract for three years.

“He wants to take the club to the next level. I know it will be difficult, but it excites me a lot.”