James McCarthy has made just 12 Premier League appearances for Everton so far this season.
Everton boss Ronald Koeman has told the Liverpool Echo that James McCarthy’s fitness is not at the required level to play for his side currently.
McCarthy has struggled with injury throughout his Everton career to date, and he has failed to stay off the treatment table this season.
The Republic of Ireland international has played just 12 times for Everton so far this campaign, after suffering with hamstring and groin problems.
And Koeman admits that McCarthy’s fitness levels need to improve, if he is to play a role at Goodison Park.
“We’re disappointed, first for the player himself, and also for us as he is not regular player because his fitness over a long time is not 100%,” McCarthy said.
“We must understand that maybe his fitness level [isn’t at the required level] and that we need to do something different maybe.”
McCarthy has not been included in Everton’s squad for their last two matches, against West Bromwich Albion and Hull City.
At one stage, the 26-year-old appeared to have an important role to play with the Toffees.
However, since the arrival of Morgan Schneiderlin and the emergence of Tom Davies – McCarthy has taken a backseat.
McCarthy’s future at Everton now appears to be in doubt, ahead of the summer transfer window.
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