Former Everton chief Joe Royle is returning to football.

The Daily Mail says Royle is being lined up by Wigan Athletic to become their new director of football.

The vastly experienced 69-year-old ls expected to work alongside manager Paul Cook to help deliver new signings as Wigan move towards a £22million takeover by Hong Kong-based International Entertainment Corporation.

Royle who has managed Oldham, Everton and Manchester City during a colourful career, left Everton again in December where he was professional development co-ordinator, helping young players from Everton's academy and Under-23 set-up progress to the first team while assisting with scouting and recruitment.

He also helped David Unsworth deliver the Premier League Two title.