Everton are unhappy with their midfielder James McCarthy after he aggravated a hamstring injury by declaring himself fit for the Republic of Ireland.

McCarthy was removed from the starting line-up just minutes before Friday’s World Cup qualifier with Wales and now faces several more weeks out.

An already fraught relationship between Ronald Koeman and the Irish coaching staff has been further tested, but the Dutchman is understood to be unimpressed with the player as much as those who selected him.

McCarthy was urged to be responsible decision when he joined his country, particularly as he missed the previous two Everton games with the same hamstring problem.

The 26-year-old has completed 90 minutes just twice all season as he has been plagued with muscle problems.