Martinez tempts McCarthy to stay

Wigan Athletic midfielder James McCarthy has been warned the grass isn't always greener on the other side.

That's the strong message from Latics boss Roberto Martinez, who is bracing himself for the latest knock at the DW Stadium door for one of his prized assets.

The Republic of Ireland midfielder has caught the eye this season with a string of impressive performances and it was his brace which salvaged a weekend point against Queens Park Rangers.

Wigan have lost the likes of Charles N'Zogbia and Victor Moses in the last couple of seasons and have urged McCarthy to take his time when it comes to his development and thinking of a move to a bigger club.

The Lancashire outfit are keen to tie the 22-year-old down to an improved deal and talks are planned early in the New Year.

Martinez said: "James is already at a very good club and we want top players to stay here for as long as we can. If you don't play you'll never fulfil your potential.

"James has been through two very intense seasons, being very successful and having a massive role. The way he is developing as a player is something he would never do if he wasn't playing regularly."

The Latics' 2-2 draw with QPR left them two points and one place above the dropzone, with Wigan 11/5 to be relegated at the end of the season - while rock-bottom Rangers are 4/9 and Reading are 2/7.

Don't forget all Premier League matches are covered by the bet365 100% Euro Soccer Bonus, where you could earn a bonus of up to 100% on your returns on pre-match accumulator bets.

View all Soccer betting