Wigan Athletic signed influential midfielder Sam Morsy down to a new contract, which will keep him at the DW Stadium until 2019, much to the delight of Latics fans.

There was some puzzlement among Wigan fans when news emerged that Morsy would leave permanently this month, as they perceived him as one of their top players, so news that he has committed his future to Wigan is great news for them.

Morsy had spent the opening of the season at Barnsley, but after he returned to the North-West this month, the Egyptian impressed during the Latics' victories over Nottingham Forest and Burton Albion, and it is no coincidence they won the two games in which Morsy has patrolled the midfield.

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The decision to stay at Wigan must have been a tough for Morsy, especially given the fact that Barnsley are flying high and pushing for a Play-Off spot.

One reason which may have cooled Morsy's interest in a move, is the fact the Tykes are destined to lose at least two of their best players.

Sam Winnall has already departed Oakwell for Sheffield Wednesday and Conor Hourihane has attracted interest from several Championship clubs, whilst Marc Roberts has attracted interest from the Premier League.

Without these three influential players, Barnsley's promotion push could well derail, which Morsy may well have taken into account.

The fact that Morsy signed a new deal at Wigan, snubbing interest from a promotion candidate would either indicate that the money on offer from Wigan was more than what was on offer at Oakwell, or he simply didn't fancy the move to Yorkshire given the fact Barnsley's squad is looking more depleted as the window goes on.

Morsy is widely known as tenacious midfielder who loves a tackle and he reads the game exceptionally well, making a countless amount of interceptions throughout the game.

If you where to compare him to a Premier League player, it would be N'Golo Kante, maybe not as mobile, but players like him are hard to come by, which is why tying Morsy down to a new deal is so crucial.

With Wigan embroiled in a relegation battle, they need players in the middle of midfield who will battle and help them grind out points, and Morsy can do that.

Some grit and determination in midfield could well be the difference for Wigan in deciding whether they pick up three points or one; one or none.

Warren Joyce is clearly a fan of the combative Egyptian midfielder and he must feel like Morsy can play a huge part if the Latics are to fight their way to safety.