Capital interest in James McCarthy increases

Wigan’s life as a Premiership football team is on the line against Arsenal on Tuesday night just three days after winning the FA cup. Martinez’s team have to beat Champions League chasing Arsenal at the Emirates to remain within reach of safety with one game to go. It’s not out of the realms of possibility as Wigan have often proved in seasons gone by they save their best for last but it will be a tough ask with a lot on the line for Arsenal as well. If they do fall through the Premier League trap door they will face a difficult challenge of keeping hold of their best players.

        James McCarthy is one of those players that Wigan may face a battle to keep hold of after a very impressive season for the 22-year-old Irish man. Arsenal have expressed an interest in securing his  services and it was reported in the Daily Mail yesterday that Tottenham and Chelsea have also shown some interest in the FA Cup winning midfielder.  

        McCarthy joined from Scottish side Hamilton Academical in 2009 for just over £1 million pounds, now in 2013 he is believed to be worth a minimum of £10 million. He has become an ever present in the Wigan midfield making the most appearances in the Premier League for the side this campaign.

        The 22 year-old is a tenacious midfielder with an eye for a pass and he has often been praised by Martinez for his ability to link defence to attack making him a key component in Wigan’s style of play. McCarthy signed a five year contract with Wigan in 2011 and has expressed that he is happy at the club but should some of the Premiership’s top clubs come calling as the rumours suggest it would be tough for him to turn them down.

        Despite a turbulent season at the DW stadium which see’s Wigan needing to beat Arsenal at The Emirates to stay in the league, James McCarthy has been a stand out player and several clubs feel that he could bring something new to their midfields. It is obvious that his current priority will be to help keep Wigan in the top flight but it could be a very interesting summer for the Irishman if the interest from Arsenal, Tottenham and Chelsea increases. 

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