Joe Royle has emerged as a front-runner to take over as Wigan manager. The former Manchester City boss has ruled himself out of the race for the vacant manager's job at Leicester City and, in doing so, has left the door open for a move to the JJB.

Despite being on the three-strong Foxes' shortlist, Royle has confirmed the job no longer interests him, but has told friends the chance to revive Wigan's Premier League fortunes is an opportunity he would relish.

And Royle - the last English manager to win the FA Cup - could get his wish as he is among the leading candidates being sounded out by chairman Dave Whelan.

Royle told MEN Sport he is ready for "one last big challenge" after a 15-month break, and the prospect of trying to turn things around for Wigan excites him.