SOCCER:JAMES McCARTHY last night insisted he had no issue with Giovanni Trapattoni's decision to demote him from the Republic of Ireland senior squad to the Under-21s. The Wigan Athletic midfielder was speaking in Sligo where he linked up with Noel King's rookies ahead of Thursday's opening Under-21 European qualifier against Hungary.
Speculation has suggested the Premier League star was dropped by Trapattoni from the senior ranks for his disappointing record of not turning up for duty.
“There was just a mix up,” said McCarthy with regard to his absence in May for the Carling Nations Cup fixtures and European qualifier in Macedonia.
“I was injured in the last game of the Premier League season and that was why I didn’t come across. Things may have been said in the paper but quotes can be taken out of context, too. I’ve no issue with anyone. I love playing for Ireland.
“And I’m happy to be here with the under-21s. I want to win as many caps as I can for the under-21s and seniors. It is my ambition to do as well as I can.”
