No hard feelings from Hutchings

Wigan manager Chris Hutchings has accepted the reasons for Leighton Baines wanting a move away from the Latics.

Everton are expected to unveil the 22-year-old left-back as their latest signing on Tuesday once the formalities of a £5million move are completed - after agreeing personal terms and undergoing a medical on Monday.

And there are no hard feelings from Hutchings, who said: "He has done a fantastic job for this club after coming through the system. He was brought up here and knows a lot of people but sometimes you need to make a change in your life."

Two weeks ago Baines turned down a switch to top-flight newcomers Sunderland two weeks ago after the Wearsiders had a £6million offer accepted by the Latics.

At that point Hutchings knew he was destined to lose the former England Under-21 defender and began making alternative arrangements. That it has taken this long for Baines to finally move has been something of a hindrance.

"The timing does not help us to be honest but we have been looking at left-backs and that will continue," said Hutchings.

"The situation with Leighton has rumbled on and we would have liked it sorted out earlier.

"But we have to move on. We would like to bring someone else in but I do not know if that will happen."

If Hutchings fails in his bid to bring in a replacement, then Kevin Kilbane will almost certainly fill in as an emergency left-back.

Hutchings added: "He has played there a number of times in pre-season and have every confidence in him."