After being left out of the Everton squad for their final pre-season friendly, James McCarthy’s future on Merseyside appears as uncertain as ever.
There has been a lot of speculation recently, about James McCarthy’s future with Everton. Last month, we shared a report, linking him with a potential move to Leicester City.
As of today, McCarthy is still a member of the Blues. However, questions still remain about what will happen to him.
In that respect, Sunday’s final pre-season game did nothing to alleviate the uncertainty. The 26-year-old was not even included in the squad, which drew 2-2 with Sevilla.
However, Blues manager Ronald Koeman is doing his best to downplay the situation surrounding McCarthy (and Aaron Lennon for that matter). As reported by Chris Waugh of the Chronicle Live, Koeman said:
"“Both (McCarthy and Lennon) were not fit. I don’t know about Lennon moving – I haven’t heard anything. He’s not fit. When he was fit he was in the squad. James still has some issues on his knee so out of protection I left him out.”"
Now, you might be wondering why a media outlet based in Newcastle-Upon-Tyne is even reporting on Koeman’s comment. Pure and simple, Newcastle United are another club which has been linked with McCarthy.
As Waugh writes, Newcastle manager Rafa Benitez — who Evertonians have so much love and admiration for — is a big fan of the midfielder. However, the Magpies are not currently prepared to pay the £25 million transfer fee Everton apparently believe he is worth.
Further, you could ask why the Blues would even want McCarthy to leave? Despite missing most of last season with a hamstring injury, he previously played a key role in the team.
More from Everton FC News
- Further chaos in Everton takeover as other lenders not keen on 777 Partners
- More madness at Everton as Moshiri now agrees to sell club to 777 Partners
- Everton takeover talk cools after UK govt doubts and further questions
- Takeover talk again as 777 back in for Everton purchase after MSP withdrawal
- Everton striking legend Gray urges Dyche to put Beto and DCL up front
This significance was best exemplified during the 2013/14 campaign. The Glasgow-born player made 34 league appearances and helped the Toffees amass their most ever points in the Premier League era (72).
Further, McCarthy is a regular at the international level, having played 41 times for the Republic of Ireland. This included started all four of their games at Euro 2016.
However, this is theoretically more about the player himself, as opposed to the club. Recent indications point towards the former Wigan Athletic player expressing a desire to leave Goodison Park.
Overall, it is our humble opinion that McCarthy should stick around, at least for another season. Everton are a club on the rise, and it would be a shame if he misses out on any future success, after spending four seasons on Merseyside.
Next: Blues shouldn't overlook Stoke City
What is your take on McCarthy’s potential departure? Should the Blues accept the £25 million fee, if anyone is prepared to pay it? Or is he still an important member of the squad, as they prepare for the season ahead? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.
Add us as a preferred source on Google