Wigan’s Ali Al Habsi defends embattled chairman Dave Whelan

Wigan Athletic goalkeeper Ali Al Habsi has come to the defense of controversial chairman Dave Whelan, insisting he “had a great experience” with him.

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Al Habsi, 32, returns to a club in turmoil this week after Oman finished fourth in the Gulf Cup and a short loan spell at fellow Championship side Brighton and Hove Albion.

Scandal hit Latics last week, with Whelan, 77, apologizing for newspaper comments about Chinese and Jews when defending the appointment of new manager Malky Mackay, who is being investigated by the Football Inquiry for allegedly sending racist, homophobic and sexist messages.

The Oman skipper has enjoyed a long association with Wigan after being brought there on an initial temporary deal in 2010.

Speaking in Riyadh after Tuesday’s third-placed side’s 3-2 play-off defeat to the United Arab Emirates, he had only good words to say about his under-fire supremo.

He said: “I had a great experience with Dave Whelan. He’s a great guy, a great president. I wish him all the best.

“I’m going back to Wigan, I feel great (about it).

“Remember, we had five games in a short period of time (during the Gulf Cup).

“It’s great for my confidence to be back fighting for my place at Wigan.

“We are happy (about the new manager) and I am happy to come back and work for him.

“So far I haven’t seen the gaffer but I’m looking forward to it.”

Oman exceeded all expectations during the Khaleej 22, a young side that pipped holders UAE to the top of Group B and created numerous chances when the teams meet again.

More experienced players are expected to return for the Asian Cup in January, with the likes of injured main striker Amad Al Hosni.

“It was a good tournament for us,” Al Habsi said.

“Many good things have happened to us.

“It was a good competition with a tough competition between the players.

“It was a good experience for the young players because we had a lot of them in our team.

“To play in a game like this (against the UAE), it will improve them.

“Remember, we have the Asian Cup coming soon. We need to focus now – we only have 40 days until the competition starts.

“We have a lot of work ahead of us.”

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