James McCarthy hasn’t played for Everton since August 23rd, but has just played two games over a four-day period for the Republic of Ireland.
Everton manager Ronald Koeman
Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Everton boss Ronald Koeman was critical of the handling of James McCarthy whilst on international duty with the Republic of Ireland, as quoted by the Irish Independent.
McCarthy endured a lengthly spell on the sidelines in September after having surgery on his troublesome groin, but was thrust into international action, playing 170 minutes for his country over their two World Cup qualifying wins.
Republic of Ireland manager Martin O’Neill
Koeman was speaking to the media ahead of his side’s trip to the Etihad to take on Manchester City on Saturday, and highlighted McCarthy’s fitness as an area of concern, as quoted by the Irish Independent:
“James McCarthy is a little more difficult, because after five or six weeks out of football after his surgery, he played the full game after three group sessions with Ireland. He played the second game, and he’s been massively overloaded. We have to make a decision tomorrow if he’s really fit to be part of the team.”
James McCarthy celebrates after Ireland’s win
Koeman has not been best pleased with O’Neill in the past, when he was in charge at Southampton, and criticised the Republic of Ireland boss for playing Shane Long when he wasn’t fully fit (Sky Sports).
This weekend’s game will be a real test for Everton, after their impressive start to the campaign which has seen them take 14 points from seven games.
They have only faced one team inside the current top-seven of the Premier League so far, however, so the game against City will provide a more realistic idea of where the Toffees are currently at, in relation to their hopes of Champions League qualification.
Whether or not McCarthy is part of the squad that Koeman takes to the Etihad though, remains to be seen.
Everton’s James McCarthy in action
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