Honduran midfielder Thomas signs for Wigan

English Premier League side Wigan have signed Honduran international midfielder Hendry Thomas on a three-year contract, subject to international clearance.

The 24-year-old was due to join the Latics last summer but his transfer was torpedoed as he did not meet the work permit criteria in terms of the number of times he had played for his country.

That situation has now improved and a deal was agreed a couple of months ago between the clubs, with the player now passing a medical and agreeing terms.

Thomas was originally spotted by former manager Steve Bruce, who has now left the club to take over at Premier League rivals Sunderland.

He will be the third Honduras international to play for Wigan, with left-back Maynor Figueroa featuring in every Premier League match last season and fellow midfielder Wilson Palacios becoming a pivotal figure before his January transfer to Tottenham.

“Everyone knows how well Wilson and Maynor have done in the Premier League and it is no wonder there was lots of interest in Hendry, who comes from the same club as those two and has impressed,” said new Wigan manager Roberto Martinez.

“What happened last season here was a shame but the player now has the chance to prove himself over here.

“He is a powerful figure in midfield, who can sit in front of the back four and destroy attacks, or can also come forward and score.

Thomas is now a regular for Honduras and has won 31 caps for his country.

“What happened last year was very disappointing for me personally,” he said.

“But I have worked hard all season to stay fit and qualify for the work permit rules and it is a dream come true for me to come to England.