Parreira announced the squad on Tuesday as he showed sympathy to the five unlucky players axed.

"My heart bleeds for them," the Brazilian, who led his nation to World Cup glory in 1994, told a news conference in Johannesburg.

"Put your heads up. Life goes on. We are only allowed to take 23 but thank you very much for your efforts, your attitude and commitment.

"A team is when somebody shares the same vision, whether you are playing or on the bench."

McCarthy had a poor season with Blackburn Rovers and West Ham, having struggled with fitness and weight problems for long spells.

In addition to the 32-year-old striker, Rowen Fernandez, Innocent Mdledle, Bryce Moon and Franklyn Cale were also sent home.

South Africa squad:

Goalkeepers: Itumeleng Khune (Kaizer Chiefs), Moeneeb Josephs (Orlando Pirates), Shuaib Walters (Maritzburg United)

Defenders: Siboniso Gaxa (Sundowns), Anele Ngcongca (Genk), Aaron Mokoena (Portsmouth), Matthew Booth (Sundowns), Bongani Khumalo (SuperSport United), Siyabonga Sangweni (Golden Arrows), Tsepo Masilela (Maccabi Haifa), Lucas Thwala (Orlando Pirates)

Midfielders: Teko Modise (Orlando Pirates), Lance Davids (Ajax Cape Town), Reneilwe Letsholonyane (Kaizer Chiefs), MacBeth Sibaya (Rubin Kazan), Thanduyise Khuboni (Golden Arrows), Kagiso Dikgacoi (Fulham), Steven Pienaar (Everton), Siphiwe Tshabalala (Kaizer Chiefs)

Strikers: Surprise Moriri (Sundowns), Bernard Parker, Katlego Mphela (Sundowns), Siyabonga Nomvethe (Moroka Swallows).