Wigan Athletic are grieving following the sudden death of goalkeeping coach Kevin Miller at the age of 57.
The League One club announced the news on Thursday afternoon, having cancelled a scheduled pre-match press conference ahead of Saturday’s fixture against Wycombe.
Miller joined Wigan during the summer to team up with close friend and manager Gary Caldwell, having previously worked alongside him at Exeter City, where he spent three and a half years as goalkeeping coach.
In a statement, the club said: “Although Kevin’s time with Latics was far too short, he quickly became a much-loved and respected member of our first-team staff.
“His experience, professionalism and passion for goalkeeping were clear for all to see, while his uplifting personality made a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of working alongside him.
“His sudden passing has left everyone at the club deeply saddened and devastated.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Kevin’s wife, Fiona, daughter, Esme, close family, friends, colleagues and all who knew and loved him.
“The club asks for total privacy for Kevin’s family and friends at this difficult time.”
Miller’s playing career began at Exeter before he went on to make more than 700 appearances across 20 years, playing in the Premier League and representing Watford, Birmingham, Crystal Palace, Barnsley, Bristol Rovers, Derby, Southampton and Torquay.
Exeter paid tribute on their website, describing Miller as “an incredibly popular figure during his time at St James Park, earning a place in the hearts of supporters with his performances between the posts and his wholehearted commitment to the club”.
Wigan played in the Premier League for eight seasons after earning promotion back in 2005, and famously won the FA Cup back in 2013 by beating Manchester City in the final under Roberto Martinez.
They are now in the third tier of English football and have endured a difficult start to the campaign, winning just one of their opening six League One fixtures.
This has left them second bottom, a point clear of Doncaster, with just four points from a possible 18 ahead of Saturday’s home match against Wycombe.
