From early on, McCarthy 'felt there was something brewing' with Ireland squad 

October and November entailed improved showings, culminating in wins over the top two seeds, Portugal and Hungary, to snare the runners-up spot and entry into the playoffs.

Crystal Palace and Ireland assistant coach Paddy McCarthy. Pic: Ryan Byrne

Early morning jogs are a constant for Paddy McCarthy on Ireland and Crystal Palace duty and the pace is accelerating for 2026.

Heimir Hallgrímsson along with his assistants John O’Shea and McCarthy regularly undertake runs during camp around their Castleknock base and the latter continued it while at Carton House this week.