Southampton goalkeeper has been talking about his own account on what training sessions have been like since his side returned to Staplewood.
The 30-year-old, along with his teammates, trained for the first time since the Premier League was suspended back in March as officials continue to implement ‘Project Restart’ and a similar patch to what the German Bundesliga has implemented.
McCarthy has been involved in 19 Premier League games during the current campaign and has only kept four clean sheets, in what has been another tough campaign for the Saints.
Writing in his Daily Echo column, McCarthy opened up on his experience as a keeper and admits he is missing the quips and jokes with his teammates.
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“So, for us goalkeepers, there was some separate catching and reflex practice which helped dust off a few cobwebs”, he said.
“I will say that I am missing the camaraderie that takes place in the changing room once a session has finished – normally we’d all be bringing up who got nutmegged the most during rondos and most importantly, who’s playing darts!
“Personally, it’s been great to be back out on the training pitch – that’s a feeling that I have missed hugely over these last couple of months!”
McCarthy also said that it has been a strange experience for him and reassures the St Mary’s faithful that the club is keeping on top of the correct procedures and protocols put in place.
As mentioned above, the German domestic league became the first in Europe to get back underway and has set the example for English top-flight to follow.
Also, as a fan, it is comforting to hear that training has been an enjoyable place for our players, despite individuals from other squads indicating that they do not feel comfortable in the usual setting, for obvious reasons.
Whatever happens, it could be a long and drawn-out process. It is a mystery when fans will be allowed back into the stadium. But for now, it is good that preparations are well underway to getting our sport back.
