Name: James McCarthy
Born: 12 November 1990 (Age 19)
International Honours: Republic of Ireland (1 cap)
McCarthy burst onto the scene back in 2006 after making his senior debut for Hamilton Academical at the age of just 15.
His first appearance came as a substitute but he still managed his to gain his first start for the club before his 16th birthday, helping his side to a win over Airdrie United.
The young Irishman then began establishing himself in the first-team, earning himself a a new three-year deal after the helping the club to promotion to the Scottish Premier League in the 2007-08 season.
A dynamic midfielder capable of playing in the middle and out wide, McCarthy enjoyed a fine debut season in the top-flight before Hamilton accepted a £1.2 million bid from Premier League side Wigan Athletic.
He made the move south after 95 appearances and 13 goals for his home town club, putting pen-to-paper on a long-term contract with Roberto Martinez's side.
His Wigan debut arrived as a substitute in a 5-0 home defeat to Manchester United, although he did mark his first start for the club with goal against Wolves in January of 2010.
In total he has amassed nearly 30 appearances for the club and is now an integral part of the Latics' midfield.
On the international stage McCarthy played for the Republic of Ireland at a number of youth levels before receiving his first senior call-up in February of this year. He came on as a substitute in a friendly against Brazil but is yet to be given a second cap.
Source: DSG
