Wigan Athletic chairman Dave Whelan won't have any problem with Chris Hutchings returning to the JJB as Paul Jewell's assistant.

The Mail on Sunday says pay-off talks with Hutchings are on hold while Wigan chairman Whelan attempts to woo Jewell into renewing the alliance. Hutchings could be compensated by being offered his old job as assistant manager.

That would suit Wigan, who would avoid a hefty compensation settlement. Hutchings left on good terms and would be delighted with the deal, as would Jewell. The pair worked together at Bradford before establishing Wigan in the Premier League.