By @LaticsOfficial

Harry McHugh signs a one-year contract extension at the Brick Community Stadium 

  • Harry McHugh signs a one-year contract extension! 
  • The Heatable Latics Academy graduate made six appearances for Shaun Maloney’s men last term and spent time on loan in Scotland 
  • McHugh: "It's been my home since I was a teenager, and I am looking forward to continuing my journey here."

We are pleased to confirm that Harry McHugh has signed a one-year contract extension with the Football Club. 

McHugh, 21, will continue his exciting development at the Brick Community Stadium, having excelled throughout his rise from the Heatable Latics Academy.

Initially joining Latics as a U13 following a spell with Everton, McHugh inspired Latics to back-to-back Professional Development League North titles as an U18, as well as helping Latics become PDL National Champions for the first time in May 2021. 

He made his first three professional appearances in the 2020/21 campaign, memorably scoring a stunning goal against Tranmere Rovers in the EFL Trophy. 

Having established himself as a star player for the U21s in recent years, McHugh made the step up into the first-team squad and went on to feature six times for Shaun Maloney’s men last season. McHugh marked his first senior appearance of 2023/24 with a goal against Leicester City U21s, before making his first Sky Bet League One start against Reading in December. 

The 21-year-old then headed north of the border to spend the second half of the season with Ayr United, where he made 12 appearances. It was a successful stay in Scotland for the Heatable Latics Academy graduate as he impressed with his versatility, with the highlight being his vital last-gasp winner in the 4-3 victory against Partick Thistle.

Having put pen to paper on extended terms at the Brick Community Stadium, McHugh will now look to establish himself in the first team over the next 12 months.

Congratulations, Harry! 

After signing his new deal, Harry McHugh said:

"I am delighted to sign a contract extension with this fantastic Football Club. It's been my home since I was a teenager, and I am looking forward to continuing my journey here. It's a big season coming up, and having seen the Gaffer's commitment to giving young players an opportunity over the last 12 months, I am hoping that I can make the step up into the first team on a more regular basis. 

"It's a brilliant Club for young players to develop, and I am really excited to see what happens over the next year. I'd like to thank the Gaffer and Gregor Rioch for showing their faith in me, as well as my family, for always supporting me throughout my career to date." 

First Team Manager, Shaun Maloney added: 

"We are pleased that Harry has signed a contract extension with the Football Club. Harry hasn't had an easy route in terms of his path from the Academy but has always shown a high level of professionalism and desire. 

"Harry made a number of first-team appearances last season in several different positions, which really showcases his talent, and enjoyed a successful loan in Scotland. I am looking forward to helping Harry develop, and if he continues to apply himself in the right way, he knows that he will get opportunities next season."