Wigan Athletic Goalkeeper Sam Tickle has returned from international duty due to injury, the club have confirmed.
The stopper had been called up by England under-21’s for their games against Northern Ireland and Austria but has withdrawn over what is being referred to as a ‘minor injury’.
In a statement on their official X account, Wigan said, “Goalkeeper Sam Tickle has picked up a minor injury whilst away with England U21s. He has returned to the Club as a precaution and will undergo a medical assessment.”
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22-year-old Tickle has returned to the Brick Community Stadium to be assessed by the Latics, who will assess the keeper ahead of their return to League One action. The 2013 FA Cup winners face Bristol Rovers in their next game in the third tier and will be hoping Tickle is fit to feature in order to boost their chances of victory.
It’s been a difficult start to the season for Shaun Maloney’s side, who find themselves in the relegation zone after four games. The Latics lie 21st in the division with only one win, and three defeats, to their name after being touted for success before the season started. Fans of the club will be hoping Tickle’s injury isn’t more serious than first thought, with the academy product likely to be central to any success the club has this season.
Despite his youth, Tickle is an experienced name and has already established himself as a key player for Wigan. He established himself as first choice at the beginning of the 2023-24 campaign, playing every league game of the season. Overall, he has made 59 appearances in between the sticks for the Latics and looks as if he’ll play a major role again this term.
As a result of this he has gained plenty of interest further up the pyramid. He has reportedly caught the eye of Premier League giants Arsenal, as well as being rumoured as a replacement for Michael Cooper at Plymouth Argyle. He has stayed put for now though, and Wigan will be hoping he can drive them up the table after their poor start.
Writer’s View
This is probably a wise decision. Tickle probably wasn’t going to be first choice on international duty so it makes sense that he returns to his club rather than risking aggravating the injury. For Wigan, they now get to look after their star player by themselves, so can keep a keen eye on his progression. They’ll be desperate for him to be fit for their next league game and him being at the club probably gives the best chance of that happening.
