Matt Jarvis, Michael Kightly and Sylvan Ebanks-Blake have all been forced to the sidelines while Wolves' impressive early season form has been ended by two defeats in the space of five days.

But a defiant McCarthy told the club's official website: "Twenty two points after 10 games - we're second aren't we? If that's a crisis, then roll on the next crisis.

"The international break has come at the right time and hopefully we'll get some players back. Jarvo (Matt Jarvis) clearly won't be back but obviously Chris (Iwelumo) should be after suspension and I would hope Kights (Michael Kightly) and Sylvan (Ebanks-Blake) will be as well. That would make a huge difference."

Ebanks-Blake has not yet been withdrawn from England's Under-21 squad for Friday's European Championship play-off first leg against Wales, but McCarthy has already moved to effectively rule the striker out.

"Sylvan has damaged his medial ligaments but we should have him fit in two weeks time," he said.