Hamilton midfielder James McCarthy has completed his transfer to Wigan Athletic for an initial fee of £1.2m.

The 18-year-old had been linked with a number of clubs throughout the summer with Celtic, Burnley and Portsmouth all having bids rejected.

As a lifelong Celtic fan, the SPL Young Player of the Year admitted a move to the Bhoys would have been his first choice but Tony Mowbray's men refused to match Wigan's bid.

Wigan and Wolves were the only two clubs willing to meet Accies' asking price with McCarthy opting for a five-year contract with the Latics in a deal which could eventually rise to £3m.

"I would have been happy to join Celtic as I'm a lifelong fan of the club but Tony Mowbray didn't think I was worth it," said McCarthy.

"So I'm looking forward to my move down south. Wigan are a club I couldn't knock back - everything about the place, the manager and the way he wants to play football will suit my style.

"I feel I can go to Wigan and prove I am worth the money they have spent on me. I have the faith in my ability to show I?m able to play at this level."