Republic of Ireland hopeful over James McCarthy fitness

Republic of Ireland manager Martin O'Neill has revealed that he expects James McCarthy to be fit for Friday's Euro 2016 qualifier away to Scotland.

The midfielder is due to have a scan on his hamstring after sitting out a training session on Wednesday.

"James didn't do any work today - he is going for a scan this afternoon, but he is feeling better so we will see what tomorrow will bring," O'Neill is quoted as saying by BBC Sport.

"I will wait until tomorrow. If he is fit to play and wants to play that's fine. If not, then that's also fine. He has improved."

Ireland are currently in second place in Group D, level on points with leaders Poland after three matches.