Wigan won’t stop McCarthy following Martinez

Republic of Ireland international James McCarthy may yet follow manager Roberto Martinez to Everton after Wigan chairman Dave Whelan admitted he has struck no deal to prevent the Spaniard returning to cherry-pick their top stars.

However, Whelan has warned suitors that players won’t be leaving the relegated Latics on the cheap and vowed Martinez will not get favourable treatment.

“If Everton want to sign any of our players for the right amount of money we will consider it,” he said. “There is no agreement [to prevent Martinez returning for stars he nurtured at the DW Stadium]. It is unfair and I don’t believe in anything like that.