Monday 3 November 2014 20:09, UK
Jay McEveley is eager to see Paddy McCarthy agree an extension to his time at Sheffield United.
The Irish defender has been on loan at Bramall Lane from Crystal Palace, but has seen an initial deal come to an end.
United have expressed an interest in bringing the experienced defender back, and McEvely is hoping a deal can be done.
He told The Star: “We’re all hoping that Paddy decides to come back because he’s a quality player. You’ve seen that with his performances out there on the pitch and the rest of the lads are doing their bit to try and make sure that’s the case.
“I know he’s got a few things to consider first and that’s completely understandable. Everyone appreciates and knows where he’s coming from on that.
Neil has been superb with everything and we’ll sit down and have a good chat with Paddy about absolutely everything over the next couple of days.
“But I also know that Paddy has really enjoyed himself here over the past few weeks. His performances have reflected that because, if you’re not happy, then you can’t do as well as he’s been out there on the pitch.
“Fingers crossed, that counts for something.”
McEveley added: “There are a few of us who often stay in the hotel at the ground a few nights a week and, when we’ve been going out for some food, we always make sure Paddy comes with us. Michael (Higdon) and myself have been doing that.
“It’s important that you make sure new people here feel welcome. Paddy has fitted in really well and is one of the lads in the dressing room behind the scenes.”
Nigel Clough says Palace boss Neil Warnock is prepared to sanction a deal through to January, but he is also aware of the need to resolve outstanding issues regarding the terms of the loan – with United looking for McCarthy to be made available for cup competition.
Clough said: “A lot will depend on whether we get permission to play Paddy in the Cup. Our next two games are in the FA Cup and JPT.
“The Doncaster Rovers game in the league after that is in doubt because of international call-ups. So it could be three weeks until our next league game. That’s something we’ve also got to factor in.
“Paddy, though, knows we want him to stay.
“Neil has been superb with everything and we’ll sit down and have a good chat with Paddy about absolutely everything over the next couple of days.”
