Wigan Athletic goalkeeper Sam Tickle has been forced to return from international duty with England’s under-21s due to injury, the club has confirmed.
Tickle had been called up for England’s games against Northern Ireland and Austria but has withdrawn as a precaution following what Wigan described as a “minor injury.”
In a statement on their official X (formerly Twitter) account, Wigan Athletic 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.”
The news comes at a concerning time for Wigan, who currently sit in the League One relegation zone after a difficult start to the season. With only one win from their first four games, the Latics find themselves 21st in the table, far from the promotion push many had expected.
Tickle, 22, has been a key figure for Wigan, establishing himself as the first-choice goalkeeper at the start of the 2023-24 season. He joined Wigan’s academy in 2012 and, after being released in 2018, played for Pilkington, where he made 21 league appearances and won Player of the Season as they claimed the Cheshire Football League title.
In 2019, Tickle returned to Wigan as a scholar and made his professional debut in October 2021 in an EFL Trophy match against Crewe Alexandra. Following loan spells at Nantwich Town and Warrington Rylands, he returned to Wigan and made his league debut in May 2023, keeping a clean sheet against Rotherham.
Ahead of the 2023–24 season, Tickle was named Wigan’s first-choice goalkeeper and impressed throughout the campaign. His performances earned him the Player of the Year award and a new four-year contract amid interest from other clubs.
His absence would be a significant blow for Shaun Maloney’s side as they prepare to face Bristol Rovers in their next fixture.
Site Opinion
Fans will be hoping that Tickle’s injury is as minor as the club suggests. The academy product is seen as crucial to any revival in form. His strong performances have attracted interest from higher-level clubs, including Premier League side Arsenal, adding to the pressure for a swift recovery.
Wigan will anxiously await the results of his medical assessment ahead of their return to league action. They are not in a situation where they can afford to lose key players.
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