Federici was back in goal for the first time since suffering a knee injury in February for the goalless draw at Coventry at the weekend and admits McCarthy was unlucky to miss out.
He said: "It's been a while but it is fantastic to be back in the side.
"Alex is a terrific goalkeeper and is most definitely one for the future. I can't praise him highly enough, everyone knows he's a very good goalkeeper.
"I worked hard behind the scenes to earn my place by right.
"Alex has done tremendously well in a short space of time and can be very happy with himself."
Source: PA
Source: PA