McCarthy defends Fulham boss

Wolves manager Mick McCarthy has leapt to the defence of Roy Hodgson after the Fulham boss came under fire for fielding a weakened team at Hull City.

The Tigers won 2-0 to boost their battle for Barclays Premier League survival, leaving Hull's fellow strugglers West Ham furious at Hodgson's team selection.

McCarthy found himself similarly under attack when he made 10 changes for Wolves' game at Manchester United in December – a move that led to a censure from the Premier League and a suspended £25,000 fine.

Despite the fact that Wolves are also battling to avoid relegation with a tough trip to Arsenal tomorrow, McCarthy has revealed he has no issues with what Hodgson did.

He said: "I haven't got a problem with it. I am not bothered what team they played. It is just something that the high and mighty, who tend to look at their own teams, don't like when it is happening.

"It is about making the most of your squad and utilising your squad to the best of their abilities. That is what I did and that is what Roy did.

"Fulham are still in Europe, so good luck to them. They are probably safe with the points they have got and don't forget we have still got them to play this season."

A more immediate aim for McCarthy is trying to pull off a shock against Arsenal tomorrow.

Wolves head to the Emirates boosted by an unbeaten four-match run that has seen them collect eight points and move five points clear of the drop zone.

But he knows the trip to north London will test his team to the limit.

By JOHN CURTIS