Charlie Wyke sends emotional Wigan Athletic message to Leam Richardson | OneFootball

Charlie Wyke has issued an emotional message following the departure of Leam Richardson.

The former Wigan Athletic manager was dismissed by the club has overseen a poor run of form heading into the World Cup break.

Richardson had been in charge of the Latics since 2020 and led the club back to the Championship with promotion last season.

The striker has been with the club since the summer of 2021 but suffered a cardiac arrest 12 months ago which kept him out of action until August of this year.

The 29-year-old credited his former boss with playing a crucial role in helping to save his life last November, writing on social media his gratitude for his intervention during the health scare.

“One year on from my cardiac arrest,” wrote Wyke, via his Instagram.

“These two will never know how much they mean to me and my family.

“Proud of my journey and thank you to everyone who has been there for me over the last 12 months.”

Quiz: What shirt number are these 25 current Wigan Athletic players?

1 of 25

Ben Amos?

1 12 21 31

Wyke has made his return to action for Wigan and has featured 14 times in the Championship so far this season.

The striker has two goals and two assists for the team that currently sits 22nd in the league table.

Wigan will return to action against Millwall on 10 December following the conclusion of the current World Cup break.

The Verdict

Richardson’s departure from Wigan came as a surprise to many due to having only recently signed a new deal with the club.

However, for Wyke there was clearly more to Richardson’s role at the club than just a manager.

It is remarkable that a player can suffer such a scary moment with their health but can later return to playing football.

Wyke has Richardson to thank for that being possible, which makes this post a touching tribute to the last 12 months, as well as marking the end of his time with the club.