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O'Neill, Koeman war of words escalates
Martin O'Neill has hit back at Ronald Koeman as the pair's war of words over the fitness of James McCarthy escalated once again.
The midfielder was forced to withdraw from Ireland's World cup qualifier with Wales after suffering a recurrence of a hamstring injury in the warm-up.
Everton boss Koeman was angry that McCarthy was selected to play despite having missed three weeks at club level beforehand and he hit out at his Ireland counterpart in his press conference on Friday, accusing him of not "protecting the player."
O'Neill has hit back with a statement released through the FAI which read: "Once again the Everton manager, master tactician of the blame game, has struck out in his comments today, criticising both myself and James McCarthy.
""Perhaps a review of Everton's pre-season programme might provide some enlightenment.
"James had a magnificent tournament for the Republic of Ireland last summer during UEFA EURO 2016, playing his last game in very late June. He then returned to Everton after a very short break, but only 11 days later, he played his first of three games, all within an eight-day period, against Real Betis, Manchester United and Espanyol. Overloading?
"It should be added that James last played for his country on October 9, 2016 - almost half a year ago. Since that time he has been totally under Everton's supervision.
"James is diligent and conscientious in his professional preparation.
"Perhaps, in this instance, quiet introspection may serve the Everton manager and his medical staff better."
Koeman responded late on Friday night via Twitter, saying: "James McCarthy began his pre-season three and a half weeks after Ireland were knocked out of the Euros. From the master tactician."
Just what McCarthy's feelings are about being at the centre of an unseemly argument between his club and international manager is unknown.
Leinster's European Champions Cup quarter-final against Wasps on Saturday is live on BT Sport 2, which is available as part of the eir Sport pack.
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