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Roberto Martinez’s position as favourite to become the next Everton manager was strengthened after Wigan’s relegation was confirmed.The Latics were condemned to the Championship following their defeat by Arsenal at the Emirates last night, just three days after they won the FA Cup.Martinez, 39, has one year remaining on his current contract at the DW Stadium, but his club’s relegation means chairman Dave Whelan would potentially have to accept less in compensation from Everton if they made an approach.The Spaniard remains the bookmakers’ front-runner for the soon-to-be vacant Goodison job, and would also have to take a pay cut if he decided to stay at Wigan.Blues chairman Bill Kenwright is yet to finalise his complete shortlist of candidates, and has insisted he will not rush the appointment.But Martinez is held in high regard by the Goodison hierarchy, and his availability at a reduced overall financial cost could be a factor in their thinking as they prepare to try and give Moyes’ successor genuine spending power in the summer transfer market.Everton will save in the region of �4m a year in wages as a result of Moyes’ departure, after his last contract recognised the impressive role he played in helping Everton become a top six Premier League club.But Whelan yesterday left the door open for Everton to approach Martinez, should they now opt to try and appoint the Spaniard.He said: "If they do approach us, it is entirely up to Roberto whether he wants to go to Everton or stay at Wigan."However, the 76-year-old was adamant the Blues had made no approach prior to last night's game. "Everton would never do anything like that until the end of the season," he said."Bill is keen on his football and is a total gentleman, so he would never do that until we know what our destiny is and whether we are staying in the Premier League or whether we are going to get relegated."It is something we face every year and, if we do get relegated, he may decide he wants to stay in the Premier League – but he may decide he wants to stay with Wigan because he is a great favourite here."Lukas Podolski gave Arsenal the lead before Shaun Maloney’s free-kick levelled the scores before half-tome.But three goals in eight second half minutes from Theo Walcott, Podolski and Aaron Ramsey, finished off Wigan – and edged the Gunners a point ahead of Spurs in the race for the final Champions League qualifying spot going into the final day. more
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