Soccer:Wigan manager Roberto Martinez has earmarked Republic of Ireland midfielder James McCarthy as the player to build a team around in coming years after handing the 20-year-old a five-year contract at the club.

The former Hamilton player was one of three players the club to sign new deals, along with Emmerson Boyce and Ben Watson.

“James is a young man with a very big future in the game, and it speaks volumes that he has chosen Wigan to carry on his football education. We are proud to have him as a Wigan Athletic player,” said Martinez.

McCarthy’s superb goal against Blackburn was voted by fans as last season’s Latics goal of the season, and he was also been named Wigan’s young player of the year for both seasons since his arrival.

“I owe a big debt of loyalty to the club and the gaffer for giving me the chance to prove myself in the Premier League, and I am really pleased to be able to sign this deal,” said McCarthy.

Fellow midfielder Ben Watson penned a three-year deal, while defender Boyce, who is closing on the club’s record tally of Premier League appearances, has signed for two years.

Latics manager Roberto Martinez added: “In any transfer window, all we often hear about are possible new arrivals and targets coming out of the blue and we can sometimes forget the importance of keeping a really competitive core of players at the club.

“We have been talking to several of our players and we are delighted to announce these first three, with hopefully more to come very soon. Having players commit their long-term futures provides the platform we need to build from.”