Republic of Ireland coach Giovanni Trapattoni was delighted with the performance of Wes Hoolahan in victory over Georgia.
The Norwich City midfielder shone for the Irish.
Trapattoni said: "We know Wes. It was important to see him in midfield with McCarthy. It was important physically to contain this situation because at his club, he plays as the second striker and he has more support.
"But he played well. He ran a lot and he was clear also in the pass because he gave two or three very important passes, and we have trust about him also in the future."