Wigan Athletic Academy product open to extending loan exit
Wigan Athletic youngster K’Marni Miller has joined National League North outfit Radcliffe FC on loan until January.
The 20-year-old utility man – who signed a new two-year deal with Latics last summer – has made only one first-team appearance this season, in the Vertu Trophy home defeat to Wolves Under-21s in October.
He made four appearances last season following his arrival from non-league Guiseley in the summer of 2023 – two in the Football League Trophy and two substitute appearances in the league.
It’s hoped a sustained run of games for Radcliffe will allow him to return to Wigan ready to challenge for a place in Ryan Lowe’s first-team squad.
"It feels amazing to be here to be honest,” said Miller on his arrival. "It’s a great club with great players and great staff, and I’m hoping I can bring a lot to the side, get some wins, and help the team out really.
"My coach at Wigan Nicky (Adams) recommended me to the gaffers. They said they needed a strong, aggressive wing-back, and I think I suit exactly what they were looking for.
"Off the pitch I’m not a shy character. On the pitch I like to bring life to the game, get goals and assists, help the team out defensively, and bring good morale to the side."
Miller also admitted he is open to a longer stay at Radcliffe should things go well.
"If the initial loan was to be extended, I'd be happy with that,” he added. "We'll see how it goes."
He becomes the second Latics player to agree a non-league move this week, after goalkeeper Tom Watson joined South Shields – home of another Latics Academy graduate in Sean McGurk – on a similar arrangement.
South Shields are currently second in the sixth tier, seven points ahead of fourth-placed Radcliffe, who have played one game fewer.
A third Academy product, midfielder Kai Payne, is currently with League Two side Oldham Athletic on a season-long loan.
Payne has made eight appearances so far for the ‘other’ Latics, who lie in 14th spot in the fourth tier.