Ronald Koeman unhappy with Republic of Ireland over James McCarthy treatment

Everton manager Ronald Koeman has claimed that James McCarthy was "massively overloaded" by the Republic of Ireland during the recent international break.

McCarthy has been sidelined since August 23 with a groin injury, but was still called up for international duty by Ireland boss Martin O'Neill.

The midfielder went on to play the full 90 minutes against Georgia last Thursday and 81 minutes against Moldova three days later, and Koeman revealed that he is now a doubt for Saturday's Premier League clash with Manchester City.

"I know he played the full game after three group sessions with Ireland and then he played the second game and is massively overloaded," Koeman told reporters.

"We have to make a decision tomorrow if he's really fit to be part of the team."

Romelu Lukaku, Phil Jagielka and Leighton Baines are all expected to be available following injury scares of their own.