Tom James completes loan move from Hibs to Wigan

Hibs right-back Tom James has joined Wigan on loan until mid-January.

Hibs right-back Tom James has completed his loan move to Wigan Athletic.

The 24-year-old has joined up with the Latics until January 17, 2021, and is in contention to make his debut in a League One match against Gillingham this weekend.

James was signed by Hibs in the summer of 2019 by then head coach Paul Heckingbottom, but has only featured twice for the first-team under current boss Jack Ross.

His path into the Hibs starting XI has been blocked by Paul McGinn, who has been in excellent form this season.

The Welshman's contract at Hibs runs until June 2022, but his desire to play regularly and Wigan’s need for a full-back resulted in a switch to the DW Stadium.

A statement on Hibs’ website read: “Tom James has agreed a loan move to Wigan Athletic that will run until January 17.

"The 24-year-old right-back links up with the League One Latics ahead of their home game with Gillingham on Saturday.

“Tom signed for Hibernian in June 2019 and enjoyed a bright start to life in Leith, including a top-corner strike in the Betfred Cup win over Alloa in July.

“However, his progress was disrupted by an injury sustained against St Mirren and, upon his return to full fitness, he found first-team opportunities limited with the fine form of Jason Naismith and, latterly, Paul McGinn alongside the return of club captain David Gray.

“Tom heads south in search of regular competitive action and we wish him well for his spell at the DW Stadium.”