James Carragher is now in his second senior season at Wigan Athletic after signing his first professional contract in the summer of 2021.

The central defender joined Latics as an U14 from Liverpool, and has continued to impress throughout his time with the Club’s academy. James has played a key role in the recent success for our Academy sides, including the Clarets Cup win in 2018/19, and the outstanding run to the FA Youth Cup Quarter Finals in 2019/20.

During his time as a scholar, James skippered Latics U18s as they became the Professional Development League National Champions in May 2021 for the first time in the Club’s history. 

He was rewarded with his first professional contract in the summer of 2021, later making his first-team debut as a substitute in the Carabao Cup First Round fixture at Hull City. He then followed it up with his first start in the Papa John’s Trophy group stage against Wolves U21s at the end of August 2021. 

After being a standout performer during Latics' warm-weather training camp in Spain, James featured prominently for the first team in pre-season ahead of the 2022/23 Championship campaign, scoring in the 6-0 victory against Liverpool XI. 

He most recently started for the Club in their Carabao Cup clash against Fleetwood Town, taking his total Latics senior tally up to five appearances. He joined National League side Oldham Athletic on a youth loan in September 2022, making his debut in a 3-2 victory over Eastleigh at Boundary Park.