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Anti-racism group Kick it Out has criticised Wigan for appointing Malky Mackay as manager while an FA investigation into offensive texts allegedly sent by the Scot is still ongoing.
The Latics announced Mackay as their new boss on Wednesday following the dismissal of Uwe Rosler last week.
It comes amid an investigation by the game’s governing body into allegations Mackay sent “sexist, racist and homophobic” texts during his time as Cardiff manager.
In a statement, Kick it Out claimed Wigan had “disregarded the ongoing investigation” and called upon the FA to clarify their position on Mackay’s appointment.
“Wigan Athletic have disregarded the ongoing investigation being undertaken by the FA, and any potential punishment Mackay may face, by taking the decision to appoint him,” the statement read.
“We need to see leadership, and a respect for the processes in place shown by football club owners to demonstrate how seriously they take tackling issues of exclusion, prejudice and discrimination.
“It remains to be seen if Wigan’s position is one which the FA and all of football’s so-called ‘family’ are happy with.
“The FA now needs to move swiftly to let everybody know whether they agree with Wigan’s position or whether they will reinforce their own zero-tolerance stance on all such matters of equality and diversity.”
Wigan chairman Dave Whelan said the club had “spoken” to the FA regarding the appointment.
Whelan said: “We have spoken to the FA. It is in the contract.
“We have protected the football club.”
