McGeady, Hoolahan, Keane, Long. All these names pale into insignificance in the mind of Scotland’s Shaun Maloney.
The former Celtic and Wigan winger scored a peach against Ireland last November. Maloney has given a great interview to Herald Scotland, in which he identifies the player his team need to stop if they are to replicate their Euro 2016 Qualifier win.
Somewhat surprisingly, but understandable due to him being an old teammate, Maloney has picked James McCarthy.
‘It will make a big difference to them that he’s available,’ said Maloney. ‘I was lucky enough to play with him for a couple of seasons at Wigan and he’s had another excellent season at Everton. I’m sure they’d hope to keep him.’
McCarthy missed last November’s 1-0 loss to Gordon Strachan’s team. Had he been on the pitch, he might have prevented the string of defensive lapses that led to Maloney’s goal.
Maloney, who now plays with Chicago Fire in the MLS, believes McCarthy could yet secure a move to a major Premier League side.
‘I can’t speak too highly of him,’ Maloney began. ‘He could go to the top of the Premiership if he kicks on again.
‘He’s brilliant at winning the ball back and when his team lose possession his pace to get back is excellent. I watched him against Manchester United recently where he showed that pace going forward. He’ll be a big player for the Republic of Ireland.’
