Relegated Championship side Wigan Athletic could be set to lose, young centre-back Charlie Hughes this summer, as interest grows in his services, according to journalist Alan Nixon.
Hughes 19, could leave the troubled Latics, as they try to ease their financial problems, in what would be a huge blow to the club, considering how much the defender has improved and stared since he burst onto the scene.
Who is Charlie Hughes?
The defender enjoyed a breakout season at the DW Stadium despite Wigan’s struggles. He made a total of 19 appearances in all competitions for the club, scoring his first career goal in the 1-1 draw against fellow relegated side Reading in April.
Hughes joined Wigan Athletic at Under 15’s level after earlier spells with Manchester City and Liverpool and has quickly earned a reputation as a talented, ball playing centre back in the Championship.
League One awaits
Wigan Athletic boss Shaun Maloney may have to sacrifice Hughes, as the club prepares for life back in League One with an eight point deduction on their hands, after failing to pay players on time, which isn’t the first time this campaign as the club finished rock bottom of the Championship.
After 46 league games, Wigan Athletic finished 24th in the second tier, ten points off safety. The club managed just ten wins all season in league competition, and also finished five points behind their closest side Blackpool.
Writer’s View
Despite only making 19 appearances, the teenager certainly made an impression in what was a tough Championship season for the former FA Cup winners.
With mounting financial pressures, the Latics may well be forced into cashing in on one on their prized assets this summer, which would be a blow to the football club, especially with a difficult League One season on the horizon for the club.
