Nigel Adkins has been placed as favourite to take over the reins at Wigan Athletic following the departure of Malky Mackay.

Mackay's spell as manager at the DW Stadium came to an end after only 138 days as the Scotsman was shown the door following a terrible run of results over the past few weeks, culminating in Monday's 2-0 loss to Derby County.

Confirming the departure, chairman David Sharpe said in a statement: "This is a very difficult decision to make but I feel that for the long term future of the club, there needs to be a change now. I wish Malky all the best for the future."

With only five games remaining, Wigan have to move swiftly in order to appoint a replacement and former Southampton and Reading boss Adkins has emerged as the favourite to take over at the Championship strugglers.

Adkins is a fan favourite at Wigan after he spent seven years at the club as a player and he is available after being sacked by the Royals back in December.

Adkins is 2/1 with Skybet to take charge at the DW Stadium, ahead of Graeme Jones (5/1), Paul Jewell (12/1), Rene Meulensteen and Gus Poyet (both 14/1).