Mick McCarthy tipped for I'm a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here as fans make feelings clear
Mick McCarthy has been without a job in management since departing Blackpool in 2023 and has been pitched as an entrant on I'm a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here for later this year
Mick McCarthy has been tipped to be among those appearing on I'm a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here later this year.
The former Republic of Ireland manager and captain is rumoured to be heading to the jungle for the show's 24th series. The 65-year-old could be joined by the likes of Phillip Schofield, former X Factor judge and N-Dubz star Tulisa Contostavlos and Baby Reindeer creator Richard Gadd, as speculation mounts over who will make the trip Down Under.
The likes of Ian Wright, David Ginola, Wayne Bridge and Jimmy Bullard have all appeared on I’m A Celeb in the past. Former England midfielder Jill Scott and Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp came away as winners of their respective seasons in 2022 and 2017 respectively.
McCarthy has been out of work since departing Blackpool in 2023. The parties separated by mutual agreement after a run of two wins in his 14 games in charge saw the Tangerins languishing in their battle for Championship survival.
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The ex-Barnsley and Manchester City defender has led a storied career, playing for Celtic and Lyon and then taking to the dugout in charge of Sunderland, Wolverhampton Wanderers and Ipswich in addition to two spells with the Republic of Ireland.
TWTD first reported that McCarthy could be involved and should he appear on the show, it will be his first stint in charge of Ireland that may be scrutinised with his falling out with Roy Keane top of the agenda. There already appears to be some support for McCarthy to make the trip, with many begging for Keane to join him.
"Mick McCarthy on I’m A Celeb would be pure cinema," said one X user, while another added: "He won't take any nonsense if he does. Sparks will fly!"
The former footballer could even draw an audience it seems. "The only reason I would actually watch it if he is," one fan posted. Another joked: "Roy Keane will be mystery guest joining the jungle in week 2."
"Magnificent," noted a further post. "Chuck Keano in and it is absolute box office."
"Any chance it can be moved to a jungle in Saipan this year?" added one other person.
It may not be plain-sailing for McCarthy if he enters the competition however. Some football fans may be set on revenge. "I’ll definitely be voting for him to do all the trials, cmon #Bluebirds you know you will too," said one Cardiff City supporter.
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