LATICS owner Abdallah Lemsagam said Keith Curle's vision and "desire to help unite the club" was a key factor in his decision to make his appointment as head coach permanent.

Curle initially arrived at the club in March on a short-term deal until the end of the season after replacing Harry Kewell.

The 57-year-old's main remit was to secure mathematical safety, which was achieved with a comfortable win at Harrogate Town with three games to spare.

And while the campaign ended disappointingly from thereon, with three defeats on the spin, Lemsagam was as encouraged by Curle's enthusiasm for the club as well as the experience he brings to Latics - both as a player for Manchester City, among others, and almost two decades in management and coaching.

"We are really pleased that Keith has agreed to join the club on a new deal," said Lemsagam.

"Apart from his obvious vast experience and success in the lower leagues, all the directors and staff have been really impressed by his desire to help unite the club so we can all push forwards together."