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James McCarthy speaks to reporters. INPHO/Lorraine O'Sullivan
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'My place at Everton isn't guaranteed' - James McCarthy

The Irish international also played down suggestions that Sweden’s 4-4-2 formation would benefit Ireland.

IRELAND INTERNATIONAL JAMES McCarthy admits his place at Everton is by no means guaranteed, despite signing for the club for £13million earlier this week.

“It’s not going to be easy,” he said. “I’ve been told I’m not going to walk in there and play. But I’m looking forward to the challenge.

“We’re going to have a right good go this season.”

McCarthy denied that the £13million fee would be a burden, and also spoke of his frustration during transfer deadline day, and his fears that the deal would not go through in time.

“It was hectic. It wasn’t nice to be waiting about. I think it was 10 to 11 that we got confirmation that it was going to happen.

“You think — is it going to happen, is it not. My agent was sitting with me. It was frustrating for both of us.

“It was a relief [when the deal was concluded], and there was such excitement to go to such a brilliant place.”

He also expressed sympathy for his Ireland teammate Shane Long, who failed to secure a last-minute £5million move to Hull.

“It’s frustrating. I was gutted for Shane. I had heard he was going there for a medical.

“But he’s still in the Premier League. He’ll take that in his stride and he’ll go again.

And asked whether he expected to start in Ireland’s upcoming World Cup qualifiers, he replied: “I’m not sure. I have to go about my business as normal and work hard in training.”

McCarthy also played down the suggestion that because Sweden play 4-4-2 — the same formation that Ireland normally adopt — it will be easier to secure a win.

“It’s going to be tough no matter who you play against. We’ll have to watch the videos and see what they’ll bring.

“The main thing is getting the three points. It’s a massive game and we’re all really excited.”

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