Source: PA
McCarthy pleased debate is over
James McCarthy emerged from his senior debut for the Republic of Ireland delighted to have finally ended the debate over his allegiance.
The 20-year-old Wigan midfielder was introduced as an 87th-minute replacement for skipper Robbie Keane in the 2-1 Euro 2012 qualifier victory over Macedonia to formally confirm himself as an Ireland international and end Scotland's hopes of persuading him to change his mind.
Glasgow-born McCarthy has spent the last few weeks at the centre of a debate over whether or not his mind was firmly made up following his withdrawal from Giovanni Trapattoni's squad for last month's Carling Nations Cup clash with Wales.
McCarthy said: "I'm delighted to make my debut. The fans were great with me. There was nothing in the stories that came about.
"Hopefully I can get many more caps.
"It's been different class. The boys have made me really welcome. It's just great to be amongst it and get some game-time under my belt."
