Under-fire keeper may be rested for Arsenal game

Mick McCarthy has hinted that under-fire goalie Kelvin Davis may be rested for this weekend's visit to Highbury.

Davis has attracted criticism from some supporters this season and blamed for conceding several goals, notably the second at home to Portsmouth last weekend, and one supporter managed to evade stewards to run onto the pitch and have a 'full and frank exchange of views' with Davis.

McCarthy said today, "If I was to change things, it's between Kelvin and myself for now. Sometimes it can be almost a relief for players if that happens.

"They can be having a tough time but never want to be left out. They always want to play, and sometimes it can be to their detriment."

And the gaffer reiterated his condemnation of the boos directed at Davis last weekend.

"I don't subscribe to giving out stick like that to one individual.

"If a player comes out and abuses their own fans you can understand them getting abuse - it's only fair. But when someone is having a tough time, I don't subscribe to that reaction in any shape or form."