McCarthy looks set to miss Everton’s match with Hull but should be back for the busy period of December fixtures
Roberto Martinez is used to the routine now. He takes his seat for a press briefing, sips from a cup of tea and is then asked about James McCarthy. Fitness, Ireland, Roy Keane or transfer talk are the issues but the subject is invariably McCarthy.
The Toffees boss reveals McCarthy, who has been struggling with a hamstring injury of late, is likely to miss Wednesday’s league clash with Hull. The Ireland international is ‘a high intensity player’ who has been heavily involved for club and country this season, Martinez notes.
He adds, ‘We have to find the right balance so he can play every game and avoid soft tissue injuries.’
McCarthy has been heavily linked to a move – January or next summer, according to different newspapers – to Arsenal and Martinez says he is flattered whenever one of his players is praised and linked with big transfer fees in the press.
‘As you know,’ he continues, ‘James is someone we rate very highly… We made a big investment in him 16 months ago and we are delighted with his form. He is a typical Everton player. He can grow and get better.’
Martinez once again points out McCarthy is signed to a long-term contract and adds, ‘We want to see him in an Everton top for a long, long time.’
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