Roberto Martinez has paid tribute to Dave Whelan following his resignation as chairman of Wigan Athletic.
The 78-year-old confirmed on Tuesday that he was stepping down from the role after 20 years.
Whelan's grandson David Sharpe has been appointed the new chairman at the DW Stadium.
Martinez worked under Whelan as Wigan manager from 2009 to 2013, winning the FA Cup in his last season at the club.
"He has made an incredible contribution in the game and I have been privileged to see first hand how a successful and driven football man has given so much to the town," the Everton boss is quoted as saying by Sky Sports News.
"He has created an incredible example for football. [He showed] any professional football club could have the dream of playing in the Premier League and winning a major trophy. He showed us the way to do that and his is an incredible footballing story."
Despite leaving his role as chairman, Whelan will remain the owner of the Championship club.
