Not Really a Surprise

For some of us, it wasn’t a surprise.

“My contract is about ot expire on the 30th June. It’s impossible to resume in a few minutes my six years at Wigan Athletic (too many good memories) so I’ll take this opportunitie to thank all the supporters of this club for your help, care and support you gave me over my time at Wigan, especially in my hard moments and even more important when I was about to leave the club (you’ll understand it was the hardest moment of my career ‘cos in my opinion it’s not easy to leave the best club in the world).
You made Jesus, Isy and myself feel at home since the first day and my heart will be your home from now on.
I know Lady Luck forgot about Wigan in the last few years but I’m 100% sure that success will come to JJB Stadium ‘cos you really deserve it.
I’m thanking you all again and asking you to keep supporting the team and the Chairman because this is going to be the key of future success. Mr. Whelan has been very important for this club, he is the empire of Wigan Athletic and one of the most impressive persons I’ve ever met in my life, he deserves every success and your support.
It has been an honour to play for Wigan and today I’m happy to look back and take with me so many memories where you all took part. Happy to have been through all my hard times during my contract and I can assure that my family, my love for the club and your support and care made it possible.
I will try to answer all your letters I had, I can’t do it beforehand and special thanks for your tribute in Cockney Latic web site (I really think it was something special) and every single effort you showed to see me at Wigan Athletic next season.
Before I finish I would like to thank two managers who tried everything to bring 1st Division football to the JJB and tried, as well, to extend my Wigan Athletic career who were Steve Bruce and before him Bruce Rioch.

Finally, send my regards for every person who feels for this special club that I hope never will lose the family status and every supporter and person related to the club who’s got Wigan Athletic colours in their heart.
You lose a player but you have a very Latics fan. A big thanks for everything from the bottom of my heart.”

Full article here:
http://www.cockneylatic.co.uk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=197:martinez-exits-jjb-a-look-back-to-june-2001&catid=1:latest-news&Itemid=50