Wigan Athletic FC

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• Founded:1932
• Manager:Roberto Martinez

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Latics reject Cattermole bid

10 Jul 2009 - 14:58:13

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Wigan Athletic have rejected an offer from Sunderland for England Under-21 international midfielder Lee Cattermole.

The 21-year-old moved to the JJB Stadium from Middlesbrough last summer and was a revelation at the heart of the Latics midfield, featuring in 35 matches.

New Wigan manager Roberto Martinez is determined to hang on to a player he rates highly, telling the club's official website: "Lee isn't for sale. End of story.

"He's a fantastic player, a leader on and off the field, and he's central to our plans going forwards. We aren't interested in selling him which is why this offer was rejected immediately.

"It isn't usually our style to discuss incoming or outgoing transfers until they're completed, but we've made an exception in this case because I feel so strongly about wanting to keep hold of Lee, along with all my best players.

"He's currently on a well-earned break after his efforts with the Under-21s in the summer and will be reporting back to training next week. I'm looking forward to working with him.

"He's one of many talented players we have here and I intend to keep hold of all of our best players. Let's forget about this now and move on."