Ronald Koeman: 'International involvement down to James McCarthy'

Everton manager Ronald Koeman has revealed that he has advised James McCarthy to miss international duty with Republic of Ireland next week.

Koeman and Ireland boss Martin O'Neill have previously disagreed over the use of McCarthy, who played 171 minutes in the space of three days last month after spending five weeks on the sidelines.

A similar scenario has occurred again with McCarthy being provisionally selected by O'Neill despite not featuring for the Toffees since October 15, but on this occasion Koeman has said that he has left the final decision down to his player.

The 53-year-old told reporters: "I've spoken to James and my advice to him is to stay here and get fit but the final decision is his."

McCarthy has played just once for Everton since August 23.