Ben Youngs and Will Hurrell have been selected to play for England against Italy on Friday night, while Tigers teammate Greig Tonks is named among the replacements.
McCarthy said: “Ben Youngs has been in the squad for two years and that is very good for him.
“I think for Will Hurrell to get in a year young while he is still playing Academy rugby is fantastic, as it is for Greig Tonks getting back in the squad after a serious knee injury.
“For all three players, there are real positives. It is reward for the hard work they have put in with Tigers.”
The game at Worcester Warriors’ Sixways Stadium will be played behind closed doors in the interests of public safety and kick-off has been brought forward 5.30pm.
The decision was made following discussions between Worcester Warriors, the RFU, both teams, the emergency services and the Met Office.
Worcester Warriors general manager Charlie Little said: ““This decision was not taken lightly, however public safety concerns were the most important factor in coming to this conclusion.
“With further sub-zero temperatures forecast from early this evening the conditions are set to become extremely hazardous after the game.”
