Tuesday 11 November 2014 18:53, UK
Mick McCarthy has warned the Republic of Ireland to pay close attention to Steven Fletcher in Friday’s European Qualifier against Scotland.
Former Ireland boss McCarthy managed Fletcher at Wolves and believes he is good enough to play for any team in England’s top flight.
Fletcher has yet to find his range at international level, scoring just once in 17 games for Scotland, but McCarthy is wary of the striker ahead of his former team’s trip to Glasgow.
"I was his manager when he wasn't playing for Scotland," said McCarthy, referring to Fletcher's exile from the national team amid a disagreement with former Scotland boss Craig Levein.
"I could never understand that to be honest. Well I can and I can't but it was just a shame because he was playing well then.
"When I was asked about Fletch by other managers I said he could play in the top four teams in England.
“If it was a Champions League team looking for a centre-forward, I would have hung my hat on him. Without any doubt; I think he's that good."
Fletcher has struggled to rediscover his goalscoring form since suffering an ankle injury while playing for Scotland against Wales in March 2013, but McCarthy is in little doubt that the Sunderland forward remains a potent force.
When I was asked about Fletch by other managers I said he could play in the top four teams in England.
"I don't think it's taken its toll," the Ipswich manager said. "He's still a young man, he's only 27 and should be at his peak. Unfortunately some of the injuries have restricted him from playing.
"Honestly, I thought he could have played for any one of the top four teams.
"I don't see him much now but I saw his goals against Crystal Palace and I thought his header was fantastic and his second was the finish of a real, cold, calculated predator.
"And he used to work at it, day in, day out, with Terry Connor, my assistant. And he loved it, he works hard at his game."
McCarthy admits Friday's game is too close to call but feels Scotland are under more pressure given they are at home and sitting three points behind their opponents in the table.
"I've got to go for Ireland, even if I thought differently," he said. "But that's just subjective because if I sat down and analysed both teams, I don't think there would be too much between them.
"I think it's whoever turns up on the night, who handles it best. I think the pressure is on Scotland because they have done so well and the expectation is there."
Watch Scotland v Ireland live on Sky Sports 5 on Friday from 7.30pm
