David Moyes’ Sunderland side were unlucky to concede all three points at the Etihad in the first game of the new season as a late own goal from Manchester United loanee Paddy McNair gave Manchester City a 2-1 victory on the night. The manager will take plenty of heart from the fact that his team were able to frustrate Pep Guardiola’s side on their home turf for the most part of 90 minutes. However, he will not be happy with the way his team was outplayed in the midfield and he will have to think about bringing some quality to help him compete with the better teams in the league. And according to recent reports, David Moyes has now turned to Everton’s James McCarthy in a bid to strengthen his midfield.
The 25-year old Ireland international moved to Everton as one of the first Roberto Martinez’ signings at the club back in 2013. He has ever since played 92 games in the three seasons and has made a decent name for himself in the domestic league. A central midfielder by trait, the Everton man is a decent footballer who has a good technique and a dangerous vision.
He is adept at finding his man in close quarters and is capable of running the game in the midfield. But his biggest assets are his ability to defend when not in possession of the ball. He is a smart player who reads danger really well. He is adventurous in the final third when needed but is one of the most disciplined players in his position in the league.
He is a strong man who does not shy away from a challenge while his energy levels are something every manager would want from his midfielders. He is not an extraordinary footballer who will set the field on fire every game but is a utility player who can be counted upon to provide enough cover in the midfield even against the best sides in the league. His pace and lack of dribbling abilities are his only weaknesses but his time for club and country has seen him play to his strengths thus helping his side in the best possible manner.
He made 29 starts for Everton last season and played a decent role for the club all throughout the season. He was also in the starting XI for the weekend’s game against Tottenham Hotspur, proving that he is still in the plans of the new manager at the club in Ronald Koeman.
However, the former Southampton manager has signed Idrissa Gueye from Villa and to help him this summer and Sunderland are hoping to lure the 25-year old Ireland international out of the Goodison Park to hand him a regular place in their side. If he is to play a major role under Koeman, McCarthy would be happy to stay at Everton but if Gueye is expected to take the midfield responsibilities, it will be profitable for him to move to the Stadium of Light, where he will be at the centre of the midfield and will be given the responsibility to run the game. It may even help him turn into a world class player in years to come.
