McCarthy out until October

Maybe there was more to the Sissoko transfer than Moshiri was letting on.

Basic and Gibson maybe injured but we also have Cleverley and Davies as back up in CM. If the rumours of a 㿀m bid for McCarthy were true, the club really should have cashed in imo. Could have used the funds to bring in players in positions we're short on in January. As it is, we'll just have an expensive backup warming the bench once he's fit.

He has a very good engine and he's also a very good defensive midfielder. If Koeman, can get McCarthy to be more positive on the ball, then I think he can still become a really valuable player.

It might take time to get "keep the ball" Martinez, out of his system, but I wouldn't bet against James McCarthy becoming a key player again for Everton in the future.

I think he would've been a sub anyway and it might give Tom Davies a bit of game time from the bench.

For the 1st season and most of the 2nd season under Martinez, I seem to remember he was very impressive. Yes, he could use the ball more effectively from a creative perspective but it's not like all defensive midfielders are creative. I hope Koeman gets hold of him, and with a TEAM who properly press the ball, gets him back to where he was – and maybe better.

As others have said, give him some time to get Roberto's garbage out his head, and give him some time under Koeman and at the very least he will become a decent squad player. At Hamilton and Wigan, he was known for his passing ability, so he must have that in him still.

Barry and Gana were the automatic first choice pairing if the performances are anything to go by. If Barry picks up few suspensions (he surely will with time), we still have Davies and Cleverley.

COYB!

This break will be good for the lad and he can take time to get fully fit; something his previous Manager and National Manager felt they couldn't allow him time to do.

Hopefully well see the real McCarthy upon his return.

In the Unsworth game, I thought he was a lot more dynamic and positive than he had been since Season One. I'm hoping for a return to the Season One McCarthy.

Players have already spoken out about Martinez demanding the side ways passing. I'm prepared to give McCarthy a chance when he is back to full fitness. I think he will flourish under Koeman. On a side note, I think Cleverley is done and won't be able to play the Koeman way.

I would love to see Davies get more game time which is another reason why Sissoko was a bullet dodged.

Many complaining our squad is too small and we didn't bring in enough new players yet many saying get rid of others. Lots of clubs would love to have him.

We need a strong squad with top quality cover in all positions. In that regard, McCarthy fits the bill.

In the meantime, Gibson and McCarthy can compete in training... not a bad situation in my view; with those two ready fitness-wise, we look okay in the centre of midfield.