Ireland boss O'Neill calls Koeman 'master tactician of the blame game'
In this corner, with the green gloves and matching trunks, from the lovely streets of Kilrea, Northern Ireland, weighing in at a sliver over 11 stone: Republic of Ireland gaffer Martin O'Neill.
In terms of fighting words, O'Neill appears an expert after responding to comments earlier Friday from Everton boss Ronald Koeman, who slagged The Green Army's gaffer for failing to protect Toffees midfielder James McCarthy from injury.
Related: Koeman fumes over O'Neill's failure to protect McCarthy
McCarthy will miss out on Saturday's Merseyside derby with a hamstring concern, and Koeman blames O'Neill, saying, "James had an injury when he reported for Ireland duty last week. Our medical team made the Ireland medical team aware of this, of course."
Still, McCarthy suited up for the World Cup qualifier-cum-rugby fiasco against Wales, only to pull out with injury.
It didn't take long for O'Neill to clap back, penning a statement on the Irish football federation's website late Friday, saying, "Once again the Everton manager, master tactician of the blame game, has struck out in his comments today, criticising both myself and James McCarthy," and went on to add:
Perhaps a review of Everton's preseason 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 Oct. 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.
Koeman didn't take long to respond to O'Neill's claims, questioning the former Aston Villa manager's concept of time with a message on his Twitter.
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
Shots. Fired.