Martin O’Neill has hit back at Ronald Koeman following his criticism of James McCarthy.
The Everton manager launched a stinging attack on the Republic of Ireland camp in the wake of McCarthy aggravating a hamstring injury in Dublin last Friday.
Koeman accused O’Neill of ‘not protecting the player’ when including the midfielder in his squad for last Friday’s World Cup qualifier with Wales.
McCarthy subsequently suffered a relapse of the injury that the Blues’ medical team had warned Ireland needed to be handled with ‘extreme caution’.
But O’Neill has responded angrily to Koeman’s claims, claiming in a statement that the Dutchman is a ‘master tactician of the blame game’.
He said: “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 the 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 and O’Neill, as well as Ireland assistant Roy Keane, have regularly traded blows on the subject of McCarthy’s fitness issues throughout this season.