Wigan Athletic have entered administration, it has been confirmed.
The Latics have become the first club to enter administration since the coronavirus pandemic struck.
Wigan are now in the hands of Manchester-based Begbies Traynor.
Paul Stanley, Gerald Krasner and Dean Watson from the firm have been appointed as the joint administrators of the club, who currently sit 14th in English football's second tier and last night beat Stoke City 3-0 at the DW Stadium, its home ground.
The Latics now face the prospect of a points deduction as a result of falling into administration, which could have a massive impact on their Championship status.
Mr Stanley, North West regional managing partner of Begbies Traynor, said: "We understand that everybody connected with the club and the wider football world is seeking clarity on the future of Wigan Athletic.
"That's exactly what we are seeking to provide as we move through this process and we seek out interested parties to rescue this famous old club here in the region.
"It is a fast-moving situation and we will provide updates on key developments."
Mr Krasner said the 'immediate objectives' are to ensure the Latics complete their Championship campaign and have six games left to play, as well as 'urgently' finding interested parties to help save the club.
The Championship season's suspension due to the coronavirus pandemic has been highlighted as having a 'significant impact' in the club's recent fortunes, according to Mr Krasner.
He added: “Our immediate objectives are to ensure the club completes all its fixtures this season and to urgently find interested parties to save Wigan Athletic FC and the jobs of the people who work for the club.
“Obviously the suspension of the Championship season due to Covid-19 has had a significant impact on the recent fortunes of the club.
“Wigan Athletic has been a focal point and source of pride for the town since 1932 and anyone who is interested in buying this historic sporting institution should contact the joint administrators directly.”
The club was founded in 1932 and won the FA Cup in 2013 by beating Manchester City 1-0 and won promotion to the Premier League in 2005.
