Of course it will be nice to pick up from where we left off before the two defeats," said McCarthy to Wolves official club website.
"We were playing well and have got good players in the team but we're also playing a very good team tomorrow who are on a bit of a roll.
"I'm not sure how much of a local derby it is but it's certainly one of sorts which adds a bit to it.
"It will be a test but they're all a test. "And what's more of a test is that because we've had such a good start and stuck our heads above everyone else teams are always motivated and inspired that little bit more to get a result.
"It means that little bit more if you can take the top teams in the table down a peg or two. "We have that to contend with and the fact that Coventry City are a good side with good players.
"I hope Freddy will get a good reception," McCarthy added. "I remember going back to some of my old clubs I still don't get a great reception!
"All the stuff surrounding a match doesn't bother me really but I hope he gets a good reception and he gets applauded off after we've won."