Paul Jewell could be ready to bail Wigan out of their current plight after confirming he is ready to consider "any offers" that come his way.
The 43-year-old quit as manager at the JJB Stadium after the final match of last season and has been linked to a return to the club following the departure of Chris Hutchings.
Jewell insists he has had no contact with the Latics but is ready to return to the game.
He wrote in his weekly column in Metro: "I have seen little of the press in recent days because I am in Dubai playing golf so I was surprised to learn I have apparently been offered my old job back at Wigan.
"Let me make it quite clear - I have had no contact with chairman Dave Whelan these past few days or anyone at the club for that matter.
"But, after six months away from management, I am ready and willing to return to work. Any offers that come my way I will consider and I firmly believe I will return to football refreshed and a better manager."
Jewell stepped down after Wigan survived relegation from the Barclays Premier League with a final-day victory at Sheffield United.
He added: "A lot of rubbish was written when I left Wigan in May. Some people said I had cracked up following the pressure of our relegation battle.
"What a load of garbage. I just felt after six years of working in this job I needed a break as it consumes you 24-7."
Hutchings, who was promoted from his role as Jewell's assistant, left Wigan after a terrible start to the season which has left the club 18th in the table. Graeme Souness had been the hot favourite to succeed him.
Jewell admits speculation over his own return has been uncomfortable, saying: "Talk of me returning to Wigan is a little awkward because me and Chris are good friends.
"I am doubly disappointed it has not worked out for him because of our relationship and the fact I recommended him for the job when I left the club.
"I haven't spoken to him yet as I know when you're sacked the phone doesn't stop ringing. So I'll let things die down before I call him.
"In the meantime, I'm going to continue enjoying my golf until I get a better offer."
