Earlier this week Whelan stated that Wigan would be going all out to beat United when they host the Red Devils in the final game of the season on Sunday.

However, Whelan has admitted that his northern roots mean he does side with United over Chelsea.

"I'm not a Manchester United fan but I want them to beat the southerners any time," said Whelan in the Sunday Telegraph.

Whelan revealed he not totally enamoured with his Blues counterpart Roman Abramovich.

"I've met Abramovich once, the first time he came here," he said.

"He flew into the JJB area in his helicopter. I said I'd send a car to pick him up but he said 'no'. He had a bullet-proof car pick him up.

"He had two people examine the security at The JJB Stadium and check out whether there was any risk involved. He wouldn't eat or drink anything here. Did he have a pie? Nothing.

"I might be unkind but I can't see Bolton getting anything at Chelsea because they've nothing to lose there.

"But we'll have the champagne for United, no question."