Wigan sign rising star McCarthy

Premier League club Wigan completed the signing of Republic of Ireland Under-21 midfielder James McCarthy from Hamilton for an undisclosed fee on Tuesday.

McCarthy, 18, is regarded as one of the hottest prospects in British football and Latics boss Roberto Martinez was delighted to have beaten off several clubs to secure the Scottish-born starlet’s services.

“There were several clubs chasing James. It is fantastic he has chosen Wigan,” Martinez said.

“He had a very difficult decision to make and, fair play to him, he took his time to weigh up all his options, take advice and make his mind up.

“That shows a huge amount of maturity for a boy of his age, but then maturity is probably the one word I would use above all others to describe him.

“He has the ability to become a big player in the future and it is great to have him on board.”

McCarthy, who has signed a five-year deal at the JJB Stadium, made his debut for Hamilton aged just 15 and has gone on to make almost 100 league appearances.

Martinez added: “He’s quick, very bright on the ball, can see a pass and I believe he can have a great career in football.

“Now it’s up to us to manage those expectations carefully and nurture a really prodigious talent over the coming months and years.”

McCarthy joins Jason Scotland, Jordi Gomez and Hendry Thomas as new arrivals at Wigan since Martinez arrived from Swansea as Steve Bruce’s successor.