While continuing to be linked with Newcastle United, Wigan Athletic left-back Leighton Baines has said the appointment of Chris Hutchings as the Latics manager is good for the continuity at the club.

The England U-21 player along with Austrian international midfielder Paul Scharner, are being linked with a move away from the JJB.

While the Magpies boss Sam Allardyce is reportedly keen to bolster his side’s brittle defence with the signing of Baines, Everton and Aston Villa are said to be interested in Scharner, who scored the opener in the final day win at Sheffield United to keep Paul Jewell’s side in the Premiership.

Jewell retired subsequently to take rest while his number two, Hutchings was alleviated to the manager’s role.

Meanwhile, Hutchings, who is reportedly promised a £20m transfer kitty by chairman Dave Whelan, is interested in Watford defender Danny Shittu.

Wigan player of the year Baines, 22, told the club's official website: "Everyone in the dressing room was shocked when Paul Jewell decided to go.

"I for one owe him an awful lot because it is him who gave me my debut and has helped me establish myself. But it is also very good for continuity that Chris is now the new gaffer.

"He knows us all and it won't disrupt the dressing room during the summer, wondering who is going to come in.”