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Everton new-boy James McCarthy insists he won’t let his record transfer move to Everton change him.

The 22-year-old became Scotland’s most expensive player when he completed his £14m switch to Merseyside on transfer deadline day.

But the working-class Glasgow lad says that his close-knit family and his down to earth roots North of the border will remain a crucial part of his life.

McCarthy, who recently bought a £1m house for his parents Willie and Marie, said: “I owe everything to my family and I will always be in their debt.

“My mum and dad were virtually taxi drivers for me when I was young, driving me here and there for football training and to matches and they never complained.

“They didn’t know I was going to make it as a professional but if it wasn’t for them it would never have happened.

“It was the same right through from Castlemilk Boys Club through to the older teams, they were always there for me.”

The former Hamilton Acedemical star has already shown family values take priority.

He gave up on the chance to play for the Republic of Ireland in the Euro 2012 Championships last year so he could support his dad, who is battling cancer.

Willie still attends hospital regularly for check-ups but has responded well to treatment.

He added: “My dad is doing really well.

“The family have had some very tough times but we have stuck together and we’re pulling through.

“The most important thing is your family.

“Football is a big thing in my life but when you have to deal with the upset cancer brings to a family you realise what is most important.”

“Paul, Bryan and my sister Lisa have come down to watch me at Wigan, as have my parents. That always gives me a lift.

“It’s been the same all through my life because I’m the youngest. They will be getting down to see me at Goodison.

“Now and again I get to see some of my mates from my schooldays.

“I will always see myself as a Castlemilk boy. I’m proud of that and nothing will change it.

“My feet are still on the ground.

“I will never get carried away or start being a big shot.”