McCarthys Ireland future in doubt

Scotland may be in luck if young James McCarthy decides to change allegiance and play for Scotland. The Scottish FA have been annoyed that they lost out on McCarthy to the FAI. At the time McCarthy said he was approached by the Irish and they showed interest, which their Scottish counterparts showed a certain lack off.

The Hamilton midfielder has pulled out of the Irish U-21 squad against Lithuania which has mounted speculation in Scotland.

McCarthy refused to comment on the rumours telling the Daily Record:

"I was supposed to be away with Ireland for a friendly but the gaffer has pulled me out because of a slight thigh strain.

"I don't want to speak about the stories about Scotland because I haven't spoken to the gaffer about it yet."