Irish manager Giovanni Trapattoni has poured cold water on suggestion James McCarthy is ready for a starting berth in the senior side. The Wigan Athletic midfielder who was doubtful due to a terrible tackle against Birmingham on Saturday could make his first appearance in a green shirt against Brazil on Tuesday night.
Trapattoni is looking at the 19-year-old's continued progress for club and country.
He said on www.elevenaside.com
"In Italy, when there are young players like McCarthy, for example, who have much potential, all the reporters and fans have great expectations when they talk about them.
"But the player must play continuously. They grow and develop their personality. I think he is clever and plays good football. He is also creative.
"But only Pele and maybe Maradona and Cruyff were great at 19 years old. The rest grow slowly, slowly."
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