It is the third time he has been caretaker manager at Craven Cottage and he revealed he is on the club’s shortlist of possible successors to Sanchez.

Lewington’s side earned a point against fellow strugglers Wigan thanks to an equaliser from Clint Dempsey and Lewington was pleased with the spirit and effort the players produced.

Lewington said: “We can’t feel sorry for ourselves and in terms of spirit and effort, we can’t complain.

“The situation was it was reasonably late in the morning when I was told I would be caretaker manager. There were no promises, no nothing.

“I said I was happy to do it and would get on with it to the best of my ability..

“They said they were drawing up a list of people they were going to have a look at and that my name would be on there. I am realistic to know there is a fair chance they will go outside, but I am okay with that.

“It is a really good club to work for and they know they have got to get it right with the transfer window opening.

“They have got to get the right man and if that is me, then fine, if not then that is okay as well.”

Wigan boss Steve Bruce was left disappointed after the visitors had taken a 69th- minute lead through Marcus Bent.

However, their advantage only lasted until Dempsey levelled in the 78th minute.

Bruce, whose side remain second from bottom, said: “I am a tinge disappointed.

“We did have the better chances. Both teams were desperate not to get beat and that always adds to the tensions.

“Overall I am pleased we picked up a point away from home. We’ve picked up five points from the last four games now.

“Two weeks ago we didn’t have a hope of getting out of the bottom three and now we are in striking distance of that.”