After Everton boss Ronald Koeman hit out at both Martin O'Neill and James McCarthy, who suffered an injury in the warm-up for the Wales game, we now have an official response from the Republic of Ireland manager.

Koeman expressed his disappointment with O'Neill and McCarthy and claimed that the player needs to take responsibility for these situations as he feels he was rushed into playing while not fully fit.

But now Martin has hit back, and we've got a full-on beef emerging between the bosses.

Once again the Everton manager, master tactician of the blame game, has struck out in his comments today, criticising both myself and James McCarthy. Perhaps a review of Everton's pre-season programme might provide some enlightenment. James had a magnificent tournament for the Republic of Ireland last summer during UEFA EURO 2016, playing his last game in very late June. He then returned to Everton after a very short break, but only 11 days later, he played his first of three games, all within an eight-day period, against Real Betis, Manchester United and Espanyol. Overloading? It should be added that James last played for his country on the October 9, 2016 - almost half a year ago. Since that time he has been totally under Everton's supervision. James is diligent and conscientious in his professional preparation. Perhaps, in this instance, quiet introspection may serve the Everton manager and his medical staff better.

Ooooooh, burn.

In all seriousness, it's rare to see two managers go at each other in the way that O'Neill and Koeman have in recent times, but the Ireland boss claimed to request a chat with the Dutchman which was swiftly turned down.


It's clear that neither boss is happy and if there's going to be statements at press conferences, there's going to be a response.

UPDATE:

And we've got a quick response from the Dutchman, who has pulled Martin up on a few of his facts.

James McCarthy began his pre-season three and a half weeks after Ireland were knocked out of the Euros. From the master tactician — Ronald Koeman (@RonaldKoeman) March 31, 2017

This is a full-blown beef, but it's clear O'Neill is going to have to sign up to Twitter if he wants to keep up.

[via FAI.ie]