McCarthy needs time over international decision

14 February 2011 09:50
Young Wigan Athletic midfielder James McCarthy is going to need time before setting his international decision in stone. The nineteen year old midfielder is eligible to play for both the Republic of Ireland and Scotland and he is the subject of a tug of war between the two nations. The former Hamilton man put in another fantastic performance against Liverpool that adds to the two goals he netted against Blackburn the previous weekend. It is clear to see why McCarthy is a man in demand. However Latics boss Roberto Martinez has urged for patience with regards to young prodigys decision over which nation to represent. McCarthy has already represented Ireland in a friendly against Brazil, as this was not a competitive fixture, he is still free to switch alliances. Speaking to the Wigan Observer, Latics boss Roberto Martinez said: “You can imagine what it’s like in our dressing room, where there is a very strong Scottish contingent. “You have got his best friend James McArthur, who is enjoying a great spell with Scotland, you have the national captain in Gary Caldwell and you also have Steven Caldwell. “I’m sure James is the focus of a lot of jokes and banter, but it’s not something he will be losing sleep over. The more pressure people put on James, the less likely he will be to be rushed into his decision.” CLICK HERE FOR THE MESSAGEBOARD

Source: FOOTYMAD