Martinez: I have unfinished business with Wigan

Roberto Martinez said he has unfinished business at Wigan after committing his future to the club on Friday.

The Spaniard turned down a move to fellow English Premier League outfit Aston Villa and signed a three-year deal to remain with the Latics.

Preparing for a seventh-straight season in the top flight, Martinez, 37, said there was still more for him to achieve at Wigan.

“There are many things we haven’t done yet behind the scenes. I don’t feel a change in the management position is the right thing now for the football club,” Martinez told Sky Sports.

“It’s not about what if or what could have been. It’s about where you are and how far we’ve come and what’s left to do.”

“I think in every job you’re in as a manager you need to make sure the football club is progressing and getting stronger.”

Martinez said he appreciated chairman Dave Whelan’s support and permission to talk to Villa about the vacant role.

“The chairman has been sensational. He’s been very unique with his loyalty and his support of me,” he said.

“There have been two seasons with many changes. There have been times that I’ve needed a lot of support from the chairman and from the fans.”

“I think now we’re slowly getting where we want the club to be.”

Wigan narrowly avoided relegation this campaign, finishing in 16th place and three points clear of the drop zone.

Martinez admitted the talk about his future could cause the club instability but he was confident his new contract would put that to an end.

“There are many things we need to improve but we are a family club and we’re a club that has real hopes and ideas to carry on the dream in the Premier League,” he said.

“I’m here to make sure that we’re putting the speculation right. All the media and talk can bring a bit of instability to the fans and to the people connected with Wigan.”

“The chairman has come out quite clearly and said I’m here for the long run.”