McCarthy warns about spotting World Cup talent

Mick McCarthy will have a first-hand view of the World Cup as a television pundit this summer, but the Wolves manager does not believe it is the ideal stage to spot potential new signings.

McCarthy will be part of the BBC's team covering the game's most prestigious tournament in South Africa.

The former Republic of Ireland boss will be able to study closely any players who catch his eye as he looks to build on this first season back in the top flight.

But McCarthy is wary of players who might perform for their countries being a different proposition at club level.

He said: "I'm sure there will be plenty of managers, scouts and coaches watching players at the World Cup. But I'm not convinced it's the best place to view them. They might have great World Cups - and yet play differently for their countries than they do for their clubs."

McCarthy admits he will be able to be more forthright with his views at the World Cup than when undertaking similar punditry work in this country.

He said: "I'm doing some work for the BBC in the summer at the World Cup. I've done it before and I enjoy my work. It's good doing co-commentary.

"When you are covering Premier League games, everything you say or do is scrutinised so I don't go on there to tell anyone how it should be done.

"All I do is comment on what happens on the pitch, rather than being a pundit. I'm certainly not trying to be critical of anyone.

"But the World Cup will be different because I'm not involved in any of the teams."

McCarthy added: "I don't slag people off. If I do, I tend to do it right in someone's eye, not in the paper or the television.

"I'm no faceless wonder. If you get it off me, you get it full frontal."