Wigan Athletic have confirmed that academy graduate Sam Tickle has completed a permanent transfer to Championship side Bristol City for an undisclosed fee.
For Latics supporters, it’s a transfer that has felt inevitable for some time – but that doesn’t make it any easier to accept.
Having joined the club’s academy as a youngster, Tickle worked his way through the ranks before establishing himself as Wigan’s undisputed number one. In recent seasons, he has become one of League One’s standout goalkeepers, producing countless match-winning saves while earning recognition at England Under-21 level.
Interest from Championship clubs had been building throughout the summer, with both Bristol City and QPR linked with the 24-year-old. Ultimately, it is the Robins who have secured his signature, handing him a four-year contract at Ashton Gate.
One of Our Own
Tickle wasn’t just another player in the squad.
As a local lad and academy graduate, supporters have watched his journey from promising youngster to one of the best goalkeepers outside the Championship. Whether it was spectacular reflex saves, commanding displays in the box or his distribution from the back, he quickly became one of the first names on the teamsheet and a huge favourite among the Brick Community Stadium faithful.
His performances often kept Latics in games they had no right to still be in, and there will be plenty of supporters who can recall afternoons where Tickle single-handedly earned valuable points.
A Difficult Goodbye
While losing a player of Tickle’s quality is undoubtedly a blow, few can argue he hasn’t earned the opportunity to test himself at a higher level.
It’s another reminder of the excellent work being done by Wigan Athletic’s academy, producing players capable of progressing to the Championship and beyond.
The fee remains undisclosed, but Latics supporters will hope the money received is reinvested wisely as Ryan Lowe continues shaping his squad ahead of the new campaign.
Replacing a goalkeeper of Tickle’s calibre won’t be straightforward, and attention will now turn to who the club brings in between the sticks.
Thank You, Sam
From breaking into the first team to becoming one of League One’s finest goalkeepers, he has represented the badge with pride every time he stepped onto the pitch.
We wish him nothing but success in the Championship with Bristol City—except, of course, if our paths cross again.
Good luck, Sam, and thank you for the memories.