JAMES MCCARTHY WAS today forced to withdraw his name from consideration for Euro 2012 after the diagnosis of his father with cancer.
In a statement, released through the FAI, the Wigan midfielder says he has discussed the situation with Giovanni Trapattoni and hopes that Irish fans can understand his decision.
“I have made the very difficult decision to withdraw my name from selection for the EURO 2012 squad following the diagnosis of my father with cancer and the on-going requirement for treatment.
“I have discussed this with the manager. He was very understanding and I thank him sincerely for that.
“I take this opportunity to re-affirm my complete commitment to playing for the Republic of Ireland. It is a huge honour and source of great pride for me and my family.
“Despite not being present, I would like to wish the manage and my teammates every success in the tournament and hope that Irish fans can understand the reason for my decision at this difficult time.”
Reacting at today’s squad announcement, Ireland manager Giovanni Trapattoni told the assembled media:
“Last week, he called me. He told me what happened in his family.
“I said to him ‘I’m sorry, I’m very, very sorry’. He has decided to stay at home because he has a very heavy duty to his parents.”
Trapattoni assured McCarthy, 21, that he will be part of Ireland’s World Cup qualification campaign which begins in September.
“I said, ‘You are in our plans for the future’,” Trapattoni said.
