It was a satisfied Mick McCarthy that reflected on his side's 2-1 friendly victory over Charleroi on Saturday night.

Speaking from the squad's hotel this morning, prior to the return to England, Mick admitted that the game was the toughest of the three pre-season friendlies his men have taken part in so far.

He said: "Charleroi are only a week away from the start of their League season so they had that little bit of an edge with their preparation. We are probably two weeks behind them.

"Certainly it was physically the toughest game we have played up to yet, but the lads battled well, we got two goals, nobody was injured and we got another win.

"It was difficult for the players that came on at the break to get into the pace of the game especially as Charleroi didn't make any changes.

"But they soon settled down and at the end I was very pleased with the performance overall.

"We all know what a powerful weapon Greg Halford's throws are, and Doyler and Dave Edwards made sure that the chances weren't wasted.

"It was a good competitive game and the trip out here has been a really good exercise. The hospitality from our hosts has been terrific and I'd like to thank them for that.

"The players are a good group who all get along together and we will be back training on Monday in preparation for our game at Reading."