Wigan Athletic shouldn’t worry about Plymouth Argyle, Sam Tickle news: View | OneFootball

Wigan Athletic shouldn’t worry about Plymouth Argyle's approaches for goalkeeper Sam Tickle

Wigan Athletic have endured a tricky start to the new campaign, losing their first two League One fixtures of the season to Charlton Athletic and Reading respectively, either side of being knocked out of the EFL Cup following a penalty shootout defeat at the hands of Barnsley.

The Latics have also lost former star defender Charlie Hughes, who left for Championship outfit Hull City last week, and could be a big miss for Shaun Maloney's side as the campaign progresses.

Meanwhile, fellow Latics academy graduate and England youth international Sam Tickle has been linked with a move to the second tier, with Football Insider revealing that Plymouth Argyle have made approaches for the shotstopper.

However, the Brick Community Stadium faithful should not be overly worried by this development, as Tickle extended his contract in Greater Manchester with a new deal, which lasts until 2028, back in May.

Latics should not worry about Plymouth approaches for Tickle

While the 22-year-old's recently signed long-term contract is the most obvious obstacle in the way of Argyle's pursuit of the goalkeeper, the Latics man is unlikely to view Wayne Rooney's side as an attractive destination, contrary to the way in which Hughes was keen on his recent move to Hull.

The Pilgrims narrowly avoided relegation to League One last season, finishing above relegated Birmingham City by just one point, having won 51 points.

Meanwhile, the main reason for the Blues' relegation to the third tier was due to the woeful spell they endured under the management of current Argyle boss Rooney.

The 38-year-old inherited a Blues side who sat sixth in the Championship table when he took charge last October, and dragged the St Andrew's side all the way down to 20th after losing nine of his 15 games in charge.

Such a poor record at his former club will not instill faith in the Pilgrims faithful that Rooney is the right man to retain their club's Championship status this time around, while Tickle is unlikely to be inspired to join a side who are managed by a boss who has struggled of late.

Furthermore, Latics boss Maloney has played a pivotal role towards Tickle's development, as the 22-year-old has started for the England Under-21s during his time at the Brick Community Stadium, which is testament to his high quality displays between the sticks.

Tickle should wait for better offers

If the shot-stopper signs for Argyle, then he could find himself caught up in a Championship relegation battle a few months down the line, which is not ideal for a young player who is still developing.

Tickle has just one second tier appearance under his belt, which came on the last day of the 2022/23 Championship season for the Latics, who were already relegated to the third tier.

So, by joining a side who look like they could struggle, Tickle would be throwing himself in the deep end when it is not necessary for him to do so.

It could be argued that plying his trade for a Latics side who are aiming to chase down a League One play-off spot is more attractive than that of an Argyle side who look set for a long season in the second tier.

If Tickle enjoys yet another impressive season in the third tier, as seen last campaign, then more attractive offers are certain to come his way next summer.

It was revealed back in November that Premier League outfit Everton had an interest in the Latics goalkeeper, which demonstrates the sort of move he could be making in the future.

For the time being, the Greater Manchester outfit should not be concerned by Argyle's transfer advances, which are unlikely to prise the starlet away.