FAI should have been more understanding - Martinez

WIGAN boss Roberto Martinez has said his club will ‘work together’ with the Ireland management over James McCarthy following his no-show for the national side this week due to an ankle injury.

However, it is understood Martinez feels the FAI should have been more understanding of the player’s fitness after an intense month battling to stave off relegation.

Having been out injured from October to February with an injury to the same ankle, McCarthy played a pivotal role in the club’s eventual survival, including all 90 minutes of Sunday’s crucial 1-0 win at Stoke. Wigan are also mindful of the emotion and potential controversy surrounding Ireland’s friendly with McCarthy’s native Scotland on Sunday.