Wigan have completed the signing of Middlesbrough midfielder Lee Cattermole.
The England Under-21 international has penned a three-year deal at the JJB Stadium.
Wigan boss Steve Bruce told the club's official website: "He's got everything going for him, he's young, he's courageous, he's a tireless worker and I think he can have a great career in football, hopefully for this club.
"He only turned 20 in April, and already he has played nearly 70 games in the Premier League, as well as in the UEFA Cup. That's exceptional. He can be a great leader of the future.
"I really think the sky's the limit with Lee. If he dedicates himself to the sport as he clearly has done up until now, and he keeps learning, there's no reason why he can't progress to full international honours. I am absolutely thrilled we've managed to get him."
Cattermole admitted it was hard to leaving Teesside, but is relishing the "new challenge" he has at Wigan.
He said: "I'm sad to be leaving my hometown club in many ways and I want to thank all the supporters and the club for everything they have done for me over the years.
"I just think the time is right for a new challenge and I see working with Steve Bruce here at Wigan as a fantastic opportunity because this is a team really going places.
"You just need to look at the squad to see that and I know I'm going to have to work really hard to get into the team."
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Comment 1 - 2 of 2
Cattermole is a young footballer, but not a real athlete. His decision making has been suspect. His speed and strength are not among the best. He has heart and grit, but that's not enough to be with the top flight anymore. Southgate needs to bring in real athletes; this will probably be the make or break year for his stewardship at Middlesbrough.
Why on earth has Southgate got rid of him. he didn't play much first team football last season and this was to the detriment of the club. We supposedly have such good players on high salaries who just do not perform, whereas Cat is at 20 years old a skillful experienced and tireless worker. It is pointless having an Academy if we are not prepared to use the players who emerge. I think this is another ill thought out descision which no doubt will return to haunt us as we struggle for premiership survival
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