McCarthy's Sick

The Ex-Sunderland boss had a famous spat at the 2002 World Cup with current Sunderland boss, Roy Keane. The argument ended in Keane's departure from the tournament before a ball was even kicked.

With Wolves soon to play Sunderland, Mick McCarthy has told of his frustration with the constant talk of that famous battle.

He has also confirmed reports that he has enquired for some Sunderland players. In which he had to talk to Keane for the first time since 'that battle.'

He said: 'I wanted to enquire about a couple of players and I always believe that you should speak to the manager direct.

'That's no different with Roy now he is manager at Sunderland, so I picked up the phone and he accepted the call.

'We both felt it was the right time to talk and it was a cordial conversation.

'We chatted about the players and a couple of other things that will remain private.

'It's been four years now and it should be put to bed. Life goes on.

'The only two people who weren't getting anything out of it were me and Roy. It's the media that drives it on and we've both got difficult enough jobs without others putting spanners in it.

'The circus might not come to town now.'

Keane explained about the conversation he and McCarthy had:

'Mick phoned about one of our players and we had a chat. That was it.'

Click here to join in the debate on the club forum.