Wigan Athletic boss Roberto Martinez is delighted with their former Hamilton Academicals pair James McCarthy and James McArthur.

The young midfield duo were outstanding in victory over Newcastle United.

"We always knew they could reach this level as a pair, and we have invested a lot in making sure they were given every chance to get there," Martinez told the Wigan Observer.

"More than anything, their characters have allowed them to achieve what they have.

"When you have attitudes like they have, you can do anything in the game. And you wouldn't want anyone else in your corner, representing your football club when the going gets tough.

"Of course they are still young lads, but it is great to see them developing into the players we always knew they could be.

"Individually they have been huge, but the way they have integrated into the team has shown them to be outstanding men.

"It's important when you are talking about any team that you have understanding between the players and strong partnerships that help you go forward.

"Sometimes what you do affects those alongside you, and obviously the boys have that special relationship both on and off the field that has helped them massively."