Mick McCarthy ready to give Parrott his chance

Republic of Ireland manager Mick McCarthy has said Troy Parrott is a “shoo-in” for an international call-up given his pre-season progress with Tottenham Hotspur. McCarthy has highlighted his own track record for giving young players a chance at senior international level and says Parrott’s prominence in the Premier League club’s plans will make it an easy decision.

Parrott played 45 minutes against Manchester United in Shanghai and showed some impressive touches in the 2-1 defeat, continuing his fine pre-season form. Manager Mauricio Pochettino has indicated he could be part of his plans for the Premier League opener against Aston Villa on August 10.

McCarthy gave former Spurs striker and current Irish coach Robbie Keane his international debut as a teenager and Parrott, 17, could be getting the call soon. “I have a history of playing younger players. Robbie Keane played for me when he was 18,” said the Ireland boss. “Don’t for one minute think I’m comparing Troy Parrott to Robbie Keane (but) if he has half as good a career as Robbie had, he’ll be a very good player.”

Ireland are top of Group D in their bid for Euro 2020 qualification, with ten points from four games. A potentially vital home game against Switzerland is next up on September 5 and Parrott could be in that squad. “Since I took the job, I don’t think he has played a game I’ve been able to watch [in person],” added McCarthy.

“The bits I’ve seen have been on the analysis. Robbie has seen a bit of him, clearly our underage coaches have too and if Mauricio Pochettino is playing him in Spurs first team, then that’s a ringing endorsement. “If he starts for Spurs he has to be a shoo-in to get in the squad.”

Spurs are 1.30 to win their opening Premier League game against Aston Villa, with last season’s Championship play-off winners 11.00, while the draw is 5.25.