CRYSTAL Palace midfielder James McArthur has backed Wigan Athletic chairman Dave Whelan over the controversial appointment of Malky Mackay.
McArthur left the Latics on transfer deadline day in September for the Eagles but has kept on eye on their alarming progress.
Wigan have plummeted down the Championship table and sacked boss Uwe Rosler last week.
But they appointed Mackay on Wednesday and it has cause widespread criticism following his homophobic and racist allegations at former cub Cardiff City.
"Malky did a good job with Watford and got Cardiff promoted," McArthur told the Advertiser.
"He's an experienced manager and he's had a tough time recently, but the chairman at Wigan, Dave Whelan, will always give people chances.
"He has done that with Malky and hopefully he will do well there.
"It is surprising and disappointing to see them down where they are but I am sure they will keep going with Malky."
