The 19 year old Scottish midfielder has had to wait for his first team opportunities in a Wigan Athletic shirt, but the wait has been worth it.
A goal in the FA Cup win over Hull City nearly a fortnight, and a goal in his first Premier league start against Wolves at the weekend and McCarthy has started as he means to go on.
He told the club's official website: "On a personal level I'm made up, two goals in two starts isn't bad. But it's not just about me, I thought it was a great team performance, everyone battled hard and knocked the ball round really well.
"The gaffer started me in a more wider role out on the left, and to be honest I'll take any position if it means me getting a start and featuring in the team.
"I just need to keep working hard in training and hopefully keep earning a place in the team."
McCarthy started in the centre against Hull and performed well, but it was on the left flank that he featured against Wolves. This versatility could prove useful for both the Latics and McCarthy over the rest of the season.
For now though, McCarthy is taking it one game at a time and is hoping for a place in the starting line up against Blackburn Rovers next Wednesday.