Jamie McGrath says that fellow Ireland international James McClean was a factor in his decision to join Wigan on transfer deadline day.
The 25-year-old Meathman departed St Mirren late on Monday following a prolonged period of speculation about his future. He had spent two years at the Scottish Premiership club, scoring 20 goals in 79 appearances. He also became an Ireland international in that time.
Along with McClean, another of McGrath's international teammates, Will Keane, is also a Wigan player.
"I think it’s every player’s dream as a kid to play for your country," McGrath told the Wigan club website.
"You grow up supporting them and they are idols to you, and I was lucky enough to get my chance and five more chances,” he said.
"I’m delighted to be here and hopefully that leads to more caps in the future but I have to focus here first and get down to work.
"Growing up, James was one of the main men when me and all my mates used to go and watch. Jimmy has been brilliant with me coming here, I rang him a few times and he rang me, and I also know Will from the summer. They are both top lads and have already made me feel welcome from the get go.
"It helps massively when you know a few players and by all accounts, it’s a great dressing room and the boys seem top drawer. They’ve really welcomed me in and I cannot wait to get the boots on and get going."
Jamie McGrath joins James McClean at Wigan
7 September 2021; Sergej Milinkovic-Savic of Serbia in action against Jamie McGrath and James McClean of Republic of Ireland during a FIFA World Cup 2022 qualifying group A match at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin. Photo by Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile
McGrath added that getting the move done in time had been stressful.
"It was a bit late last night [on Monday] but I’m delighted to get the deal done and I’m delighted to be a Wigan Athletic player," he said.
"I’m really looking forward to what is ahead. It was a bit of a stress but thankfully it’s done and I can look forward to the future. I’m delighted to be here and hopefully I can contribute and help the team as best as we can.
"I spoke to [the manager Leam Richardson] on the phone numerous times and got a very good impression from what he was saying. I’ve watched a few of the games so I know what the team is about so I’m looking forward to get my boots on and get ready to hit the ground running."
Picture credit: Sportsfile
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