2002–03 Wigan Athletic F.C. season

During the 2002–03 English football season, Wigan Athletic F.C. competed in the Football League Second Division. == Background == Despite a disappointing previous season, it was felt that the club still had a strong squad. The Guardian and The Times both predicted that the club would finish 2nd in the league. == Transfers == === In === === Out === === Loans in === === Loans out === == Pre-season == == League == Between 2 November and 18 January, the club won a record 11 consecutive league games. Goalkeeper John Filan set another club record during this run of games by keeping eight clean sheets in a row. The club secured promotion with four games to spare on 15 April when their closest rivals, Crewe Alexandra, dropped points against Bristol City. This was the first time in the club's history that Wigan had been promoted to the second tier of English football. The club went on to win the Second Division, finishing the season with 100 points, 14 clear of runners-up Crewe. This is Wigan's highest-ever points total in a season. Four Wigan players were named in the PFA Team of the Year. === Results === Wigan Athletic's score comes first Legend === Final league table === == Cups == === FA Cup === === League Cup === The club reached the quarter-finals of the League Cup for the first time in its history, with upset victories against three Premiership sides (West Bromwich Albion, Manchester City and Fulham) before being knocked out by Blackburn Rovers. === Football League Trophy === Jewell fielded a weakened team in the First Round of the Football League Trophy, but were still able to win against Notts County. In the next round against Conference side Doncaster Rovers, goalkeeper Dave Beasant became the oldest player to appear for the club at 43 years of age. == Squad statistics == Squad at end of season === Appearances and goals === == Notes == == References == Rollin, Glenda; Rollin, Jack, eds. (2003). Sky Sports Football Yearbook 2003–04. London: Headline. ISBN 978-0-7553-1228-3.