McCarthy: ‘Massive influence’ Keane will help me progress

James McCarthy insists he can develop into the player Roy Keane wants him to be under the new Ireland assistant manager.

Keane claimed yesterday the Everton midfielder possesses the ability to become a “top player” having watched his progress closely at first Wigan and then Everton and, most recently, training under his watch over the past two days.

Having established himself as a mainstay of Ireland’s engine-room during the last campaign, the Glaswegian — who turned 23 on Tuesday — believes the installment of Martin O’Neill and Keane creates the ideal environment for him to thrive on the international stage.