Summer clearout starts for Latics
by Tom Adams, 15 May 2008
International midfielders Josip Skoko and Salomon Olembe have become the first victims of Steve Bruce’s summer shake-up after both players were released by Wigan Athletic.
Bruce has only been afforded one transfer window to stamp his own image on the squad he inherited from Chris Hutchings and he has sought to open up spaces in his team by disposing of both out-of-contract players on Thursday.
Skoko joined Wigan on a free transfer in 2005 and, either side of a loan spell with Stoke City six months later, made 45 Premier League appearances for The Latics.
Olembe has been a peripheral figure since his arrival last summer and departs The JJB Stadium having made just two Premier League starts this season.
Manager Bruce has paid tribute to the professionalism of both players as they seek pastures new.
“It’s always sad saying goodbye to good pros,” Bruce told the club’s official website.
“Josip is a quality player who has never given me one bit of trouble, has always given me everything when selected and we wish him all the best.
“Again, I have no complaints about Salomon, who has always trained professionally and given me everything when called upon.
“We wish him all the best.”