Source: PA
McCarthy desperate to make debut
Wigan youngster James McCarthy is desperate to draw a line under a tug of love between Ireland and Scotland by making his senior international debut against Macedonia.
Republic of Ireland boss Giovanni Trapattoni has hinted the midfielder will play some part in Saturday night's Euro 2012 qualifier at the Aviva Stadium, which would end once and for all the debate over his intentions.
The Glasgow-born 20-year-old has made one friendly appearance for the Republic but is still technically eligible to play for the country of his birth, something that will change if he does taste competitive action at the weekend.
His withdrawal from the squad for last month's Carling Nations Cup clash with Wales sparked fresh speculation that he could be ready to declare for Scotland, prompting Trapattoni to issue an ultimatum.
However, McCarthy insisted his absence was simply down to injury and he gave the Italian assurances that he had not changed his mind when the two men met in Manchester recently to discuss the situation. Now he is keen to end the talking for good and while he knows he may have to wait for his chance, he is ready to play his part if called upon.
McCarthy said: "There was talk here and there but as far as I saw it, it was just the press jumping on stuff and there was nothing came of it. I pulled out last month because of my ankle. I was doing rehab and I wanted to look after myself, and the club wanted to look after me as well. My main thing now is to try to get some game-time on the park and put it all to bed now."
