Wigan Athletic chairman Dave Whelan has dismissed Rangers' hopes of joining the Premier League.

Whelan has told Rangers chairman Craig Whyte to accept there is no chance of the Ibrox club joining the English Premier League.

"I think the new owner of Rangers has to get real and face facts - his club plays in the Scottish Premier League. That is where they are based," said the Wigan owner and former Blackburn Rovers player.

"He is living on a wing and a prayer. Trust me, Rangers and Celtic will never get into England.

"I am not saying it isn't a good idea for the Old Firm or for British football. I am saying it is not a good idea for English football. Our clubs would fight it tooth and nail."