Martinez: Cattermole not for sale (From East London and West Essex Guardian Series)

Martinez: Cattermole not for sale

3:39pm Friday 10th July 2009 in

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Wigan manager Roberto Martinez has rejected Sunderland's bid for combative midfielder Lee Cattermole and insisted the player is not for sale.

Sunderland manager Steve Bruce had lodged a bid to be reunited with the player he originally signed for the Latics.

However, Martinez has no intention of allowing Cattermole to leave and dismissed Sunderland's bid, saying: "Lee is not for sale. End of story."

Martinez continued: "He is a fantastic player, a leader on and off the field, and is central to our plans going forwards.

"We are not interested in selling him, which was why this offer was rejected immediately.

"It is not usually our style to discuss incoming or outgoing transfers until they are completed but we have made an exception in this case because I feel so strongly about keeping Lee, along with all my best players.

"He is one of many talented players. Let's forget about this now and move on."

Sunderland, backed by the millions of American businessman Ellis Short, may well try to force Wigan's hand with an improved off but Martinez is confident he can hang on to the midfielder, who is currently on an extended break after his summer exertions with England Under-21s.

The Spaniard's squad rebuilding has continued, however, with a deal agreed to bring in Swansea striker Jason Scotland.

A fee has been agreed with the Swans and the 30-year-old, having played under Martinez at the Liberty Stadium last season, is unlikely to have any problems agreeing personal terms.