• Premier League

Wigan get work permit for Espinoza deal

ESPN staff
December 17, 2012
Roberto Martinez has got his man © PA Photos
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Roger Espinoza is to complete his transfer to Wigan Athletic after receiving a work permit to play in the UK.

Honduras international Espinoza's contract with Sporting Kansas City expires at the end of December and he had informed coach Peter Vermes in November of his intention to leave the club and join the Latics.

A delegation from Wigan - which included manager Roberto Martinez - travelled to London on Monday to attend a hearing in which the 26-year-old was given clearance to sign for the club.

Speaking to the official Wigan website, Martinez said: "We prepared an excellent case for Roger and it is great news for us that he can now join up in January. He is a player we have been following closely since 16th of June 2010, when he made his debut in the World Cup versus Chile.

"In that game, he showed tremendous potential and slowly, he has been developing into an exciting footballer over the last three seasons in the MLS and has enjoyed terrific experiences at international level, specifically his role with Honduras in the Olympic games.

"The games versus Spain and Brazil in that tournament showed the winning and strong mentality that he possesses which will be an important asset to our squad."

Espinoza, who is a close friend of current Latics defender Maynor Figueroa, described the move as a dream.

"This has been a dream for me to play in England and I am so grateful for the club who have worked so hard to make this happen. I just can't wait now to join up with Maynor and all the guys and get to work," he said.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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