Irish Independent this morning.....
Martinez claims that McCarthy was 'desperate' to be involved against Scotland
Everton manager Roberto Martinez says that James McCarthy was desperate to be involved in last Friday's Euro 2016 qualifier with Scotland and claimed he could miss Saturday's Premier League meeting with West Ham.
The midfielder's absence from the Irish loss in Glasgow has become a source of controversy after Roy Keane inferred that the player and his club colleague
Seamus Coleman are being put under too much pressure by his club around international windows.
And Martin O'Neill said on Monday that he expected that McCarthy would play in Everton's next outing.
However, Martinez has cast doubt on the player's involvement on Saturday, adding that he is yet to return to training.
The Spaniard also told the Everton website that the player was very keen to represent his country at Celtic Park.
"James was desperate to be involved with his national team but he couldn't make it," said Martinez.
"We will try to get him fit for West Ham but it is a bit too early to tell. He hasn't been able to train with the team and that is a worry on a Tuesday leading up to a Saturday game.
"It's James' second injury of this nature in the last month and that's a bit of a worry. We need to give him perfect treatment and make sure he is fully fit."
Martinez will be asked to discuss Keane's comments in more detail at a press conference later this week. O'Neill also indicated that he might look to speak to his Everton counterpart after Keane's call for a sitdown discussion with a view to the remainder of the Euro 2016 qualifying group.
Meanwhile, Darron Gibson is a doubt for the weekend with a minor knee complaint arising from the Scotland fixture.
An injury to Gareth Barry has opened the door for the Derryman to get back into the Everton side and get some badly needed game-time.
"Darron got a bit of soreness in his knee," said Martinez, "He had a year-long lay-off with his ligaments, so we need to be cautious but I'm very confident he will be available to train very soon."
Gibson is in competition with Bosnian Mo Besic for Barry's regular place in the side next to McCarthy.
He has yet to start a Premier League match for his employers since his return from a setback sustained on Ireland duty.
Irish Independent
