Mail: McCarthy doesn't rule out move

Wigan midfielder James McCarthy has not ruled out quitting the DW Stadium at the end of the season.

The 22-year-old Republic of Ireland international has a grown up fast in the cut-throat world of the Premier League where he has been an ever-present for Wigan Athletic this season, finishing 23 of 25 games.

It follows his run last year where he played every minute of the final nine games, seven of which Wigan won, against the might of Liverpool, Manchester United and Arsenal, to survive on the final day.

Such has been McCarthy's influence in the midfield trenches that he has had to shrug off speculation about leaving Wigan for umpteen transfer windows.

Clearly, a strong flow of loyalty to manager Roberto Martinez and the smallest club in the Premier League, courses through his veins, although, at some point, he will take flight. His career path will demand it.

Before, he would have shied away from seeing his name linked to clubs of such stature as Liverpool and Arsenal yet this week, McCarthy acknowledged that such speculation does not do much harm.

"Obviously, it's good to see your name linked with big clubs, certain clubs, it' s always nice but I am still a Wigan player and I will keep playing for Wigan until the end of the season," he said.

"I have been linked with clubs here and there but I will keep working hard and see what the end of the season brings."

What happens then is uncertain. If Wigan survives, Martinez will dig his heels deep into the DW Stadium turf to try and hold on to his prized asset.

If the club goes down, the financial implications will point McCarthy on his way to bigger things, with the blessings of the Wigan fans ringing in his ear.

Source: Daily Mail