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Everton: James McCarthy edges ever closer to full return

By Paul Taylor

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - MARCH 12: James McCarthy of Everton is seen on arrival at the stadium prior to the Emirates FA Cup sixth round match between Everton and Chelsea at Goodison Park on March 12, 2016 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - MARCH 12: James McCarthy of Everton is seen on arrival at the stadium prior to the Emirates FA Cup sixth round match between Everton and Chelsea at Goodison Park on March 12, 2016 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images) /
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James McCarthy is closer than ever to playing for the first team, after appearing for the Everton U23s on Friday night.

It seems like nothing but good news these days for Everton. (What a contrast from earlier in the season). Last week alone, Yannick Bolasie played for the U23s and the Blues won their first away league game since January.

Keeping with this recent theme, there was more positive news for Everton on Friday. As reported by the Echo‘s Phil Kirkbride, James McCarthy returned from injury to play for the U23s in the Premier League International Cup, in Southport.

McCarthy ended up playing the entire first half, against Dinamo Zagreb. It was his first action in nearly two months, since sustaining a knee injury in the League Cup clash with Chelsea.

Interestingly, as noted by Kirkbride, Sam Allardyce had hoped to play the 27-year-old in the recent Europa League game against Apollon Limasssol. However, the Blues boss eventually opted to take a cautious approach and the midfielder did not travel with the team to Cyprus.

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When McCarthy does eventually rejoin the first team squad, it will be worth seeing how much Allardyce decides to use him. Prior to last season, he played regularly in the middle of the park for Everton.

Interestingly, the Republic of Ireland international’s best season with the Blues was probably his first, in 2013/14. He played 34 times in the league and helped the team amass 72 points, their most in the Premier League era.

There has previously been speculation linking McCarthy with a move away, with Leicester City and Newcastle United apparently among those interested in him. First things first though, let’s see how he performs for the Toffees and if he can remain fit.

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In related news, Bolasie also played for the U23s on Friday night. As a result, it’s possible — however unlikely — he could be part of the squad for the Monday night game with Swansea City.

Next: Calvert-Lewin gets just reward

When McCarthy is ready to play for the first team, would you make him a regular in the starting line up? Or are those days now gone, at least in respect of his Everton career? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.