Carlos Edwards has hailed the man he calls “Mr McCarthy” for breathing new life into his career, after admitting he hit a lull in form at Ipswich Town.
The veteran skipper grabbed his third goal of the season in the 3-1 home win against Birmingham on Saturday with a spectacular strike, as the Blues secured their Championship status.
All three of his goals have come under the 54-year-old, following almost two years without hitting the net, and Edwards is certain the former Republic of Ireland boss is the reason behind his improved form.
“Words cannot explain how beneficial he (McCarthy) has been for me,” said Edwards.
“I had the honour of playing for him at Wolves during a short loan spell and he knew what I was capable of when he came here.
“Maybe I was a bit off the boil when he arrived and I have got to thank the manager for keeping faith in me. Along with Terry Connor, he has been on my case to try and be more positive.
“I wasn’t scoring as much in the past and I take full responsibility for my actions and, as a player, you don’t need coaches to come in and tell you what you already know.
“But when they have belief in you, it gives you a bigger incentive.”
While Town are on a high after securing their Championship survival, Wolves – the team that sacked McCarthy in March 2012 – look to be heading for a second successive relegation, following their 2-1 home defeat to Burnley.
Edwards played with the likes of Stephen Ward, Karl Henry and Kevin Foley – all current Molineux players – during his stint in the Black Country but does not take any pleasure from their plight.
“I have got friends there and I feel for them but Ipswich Town is where I portray myself and that is what matters,” he said.
“All I can say is Mr Evans did a great job to get Mr McCarthy to the club as he has come in and turned us around.”