McCarthy pleased debate is over

James McCarthy emerged from his senior debut for the Republic of Ireland delighted to have finally ended the debate over his allegiance.

The 20-year-old Wigan midfielder was introduced as an 87th-minute replacement for skipper Robbie Keane in last night’s 2-1 Euro 2012 qualifier victory over Macedonia to formally confirm himself as an Ireland international and end Scotland’s hopes of persuading him to change his mind.