Wigan players Jack Whatmough and Jamie McGrath have opted to terminate their contracts and leave the club with immediate effect.

The Latics will start next season in Sky Bet League One on minus eight points after being penalised by the English Football League over late payment of wages under the club’s previous owners.

They were bought last month by local businessman Mike Danson, who has since paid off all the club’s outstanding debts.

Wigan said in a statement: “Following advice and guidance from the PFA, Jack Whatmough and Jamie McGrath made the decision to terminate their contracts due to repeated contractual breaches under the previous ownership.

“The club made repeated efforts to retain both players, but ultimately a decision has been made to focus on the future under the new ownership in this exciting new era for Wigan Athletic.

“Both players have therefore left the club with immediate effect.”

Defender Whatmough, 26, made 86 appearances in all competitions for the Latics and McGrath, also 26, played for the first team on four occasions before spending last season on loan at Dundee United.