Sam Tickle has emerged as one of Wigan Athletic’s most vital players this season, and he has appropriately attracted praise from other quarters.
Tickle, a product of the Wigan Athletic system, has locked himself a starting position at the DW Stadium for this campaign.
The 22-year-old has been a standout for the Latics, making 50 appearances, keeping 17 clean sheets, and making his England U21s debut. Naturally, though, attention has been piqued by his growing stock.
A number of Premier League teams have scouted the Warrington-born shot-stopper, and Sunderland is considering him as an Anthony Patterson replacement.
With two years remaining on his contract, Wigan may be hoping to keep him on staff. But Arthur Okonkwo, a soon-to-be free agent, would be a possibility to consider if interest should materialise.
Making my way out of there
As of right now, Okonkwo, 22, will depart Arsenal this summer when his contract expires. After an impressive season on loan at League Two promotion-winners Wrexham, he’s sure to pique interest too.
The Red Dragons, who will compete in League One, are eager to stick together indefinitely because Okonkwo is essential to strengthening their defence.
Although Phil Parkinson’s team has always struggled defensively, the London-born goalkeeper has preserved 13 clean sheets in 34 games in the fourth division while only giving up 29 goals, which is a significant improvement for the Welsh team.
That ought to make Wigan Athletic take notice of him. After his performance in League Two, a promotion to League One would be a reasonable next step for him, and he would be a realistic choice and a cheap deal.
Like Tickle, Okonkwo is a player who is still in the prime of his career and who may also have substantial future resale potential.
What happens to Tickle’s predicament in light of attention from higher up in the leagues will only become clear in time. But if he does decide to move on, Okonkwo might be the perfect substitute for Wigan to sign this summer.
