Martin O'Neill hits back at Ronald Koeman after Everton boss accuses him of 'killing' James McCarthy

Daily Mail | October 14, 2016

Martin O'Neill has launched a robust defence of his decision to select James McCarthy for the Republic of Ireland's recent World Cup qualifiers.

The Irish manager has also bristled at inferred criticism of him, and his medical team, by Everton manager Ronald Koeman for playing McCarthy twice inside 72 hours.

'I have been involved in club and international management for a considerable time and I take exception to the remarks made,' O'Neill told Sportsmail.

Manager Martin O'Neill waves to the Republic of Ireland's away following in Moldova — Martin O'Neill (left) has hit back at Everton boss Ronald Koeman over recent criticism

Ronald Koeman has criticised O'Neillu00a0for 'killing' McCarthy by playing him twiceu00a0in 72 hours

Koeman was unhappy at Ireland's use of James McCarthy during the recent internationals

'I have the utmost regard for the Republic of Ireland medical team who are as good as any in Europe.