A Shaun Maloney goal meant the Latics finally ended a run of 15 straight defeats against Sir Alex Ferguson’s side to move out of the relegation zone and leave the Red Devils facing a fight to secure their 20th league title.
And after the disappointment of seeing his side miss out on a point after Chelsea scored twice from offside positions at Stamford Bridge last week, Whelan paid tribute to Roberto Martinez’s man-management skills.
Asked by Sky Sports News if the victory was his greatest achievement since taking over Wigan in 1995, Whelan said: “I would definitely say yes.
"We’ve never even taken a point off Manchester United – even when I was a player with Blackburn, we only ever got one draw with United so for us to beat them last night was a fantastic milestone.”
He added: “After playing so well at Chelsea and basically being robbed of a point, the lads were low so it was up to Roberto to pick them up.
"I went into the dressing room before the match and there was a buzz in there and you could feel there was such determination among our squad.”
The result meant Wigan moved two points clear of Lancashire rivals Bolton, who currently occupy the final relegation spot.
The Latics face a tough trip to face Arsenal at the Emirates on Monday night, Whelan admitted he is not taking Premier League survival for granted.
“That is something hat only time can answer,” he said.
“We have some tough fixtures left but [the way] the players played last night, especially in the first-half, means we have a good chance.
"There is no team who can play better than we did in the first half last night. I’ve every confidence in the squad and Roberto.”
source:goal.com
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