“There were certain things that cropped up in the last two days that made me consider all sorts of things, even my position. But, in no way, shape or form am I ashamed of anything I have done. Nothing I have done made me think I would walk away.”

McCarthy was supported today by Brendan Menton, the FAI General Secretary, who insists that rather than weakening the manager’s position, the past few days has actually strengthened the relationship between the FAI and McCarthy.

Aware that the Irish public have come out in support of Roy Keane, McCarthy stressed it was about time everyone got behind the 22 players who remain in Japan, as they have a tough assignment on Saturday.

"I can’t affect how people decide to support either party, and I can’t change the way people feel about me, but I would ask everyone in the country to get behind the 22 players whether they like me or not."

Mark Kinsella didn’t train this afternoon, McCarthy citing the long lay-off he had in the spring.

However, the Charlton skipper is still expected to step into Roy Keane’s boots on Saturday, while Jason McAteer took some part in training and is winning his battle to be fit for the weekend.