Martin O'Neill reassures James McCarthy over Euro 2016 place

Key Republic of Ireland midfielder James McCarthy could go to the Euro 2016 finals even if he does not kick another ball in anger before Martin O'Neill names his squad.

The 25-year-old Everton player has not trained fully in Abbotstown this week and will not be risked in Friday's friendly clash with Holland as he nurses a thigh problem which has been the subject of a series of scans.