Ronald Koeman criticises Martin O’Neill over James McCarthy and accuses Republic of Ireland of ‘killing’ Everton midfielder
Everton boss Ronald Koeman has slammed Martin O’Neill and the Republic of Ireland's treatment of James McCarthy.
McCarthy has not played for the Toffees since the end of August after suffering a groin injury.
But the midfielder was selected in back-to-back games by Ireland manager O'Neill, playing 90 minutes against Georgia last week and then another 81 minutes against Moldova on Sunday.
Koeman claims the 25-year-old was put in an awkward position by Ireland's medical team and is unhappy he has been put at risk of further injury ahead of Everton's trip to Manchester City on Saturday.
"When James came back from Ireland the message from Everton's medical staff was that he was massively overloaded," the Dutchman said.
"I would like to have more commitment from the player for Everton because we pay him, but he was in a very difficult situation.
"It is ridiculous that he has surgery, five to six weeks out, three training sessions, plays 90 minutes and then, after three days, he plays another 80 minutes. Of course, he is massively overloaded. I don't do this to my players at Everton because you get injuries again.
"The players are committed to Ireland but there was contact between the medical teams of Everton and Ireland and still he plays 90 minutes after five to six weeks out.
"You hope something like this would be solved by the understanding of the doctor of the Ireland team or the manager.
"They asked him if he was ready to play. It is very difficult for a player to say no because he is in Ireland.
"Sometimes you like to have a bit more understanding for a player who has been out injured for six weeks.
"Play him for 45 minutes, 60 minutes, but not 95 minutes after five to six weeks out. The second time, 80 minutes! You are killing the player."
McCarthy could yet feature against City this weekend, if he comes through training unscathed on Friday.
Koeman added: "If James can do normal training on Friday then it is possible he can be in the squad.
"Ireland know what I think about it. I hope for more protection for players in the future."