Luca Connell claims he is ready to side with Ireland if Mick McCarthy picks him for the upcoming Euro qualifiers.
The midfielder - who is on Tottenham’s radar - could spark another Declan Rice-like tug of war between Ireland and England.
A Liverpool lad, the 18-year-old is already believed to be on Gareth Southgate’s radar.
He is not in the squad to face Denmark and Gibraltar in two week’s time - but Mick McCarthy will add him to the mix if he ‘rips it up’ during this training camp in Portugal.
Featuring in either of those competitive games would tie Connell to Ireland for the rest of his career.
In Portugal last night, Connell said: “I wouldn’t hold back. I’ve to take any opportunity that I can. It’s a once in a lifetime.
“If you turn that down, not just the gaffer but the team wouldn’t be happy with you.
I’d take the chance, yeah.
“I saw a few of the reports (about England’s interest) and got told about them but it could mean anything, couldn’t it?
“There was no direct contact. I’m happy where I am, playing. If the gaffer wants to give me a chance, I’m more than willing to take that.
“I’m grateful to be called up to the first-team, I couldn’t ask for much more. I’ve enjoyed every time I’ve been in a camp with Ireland. I’m just happy where I am right now.”
Agents ultimately played a big part in Rice’s decision to side with England and Connell could be a star in the making.
Out of contract with Bolton this summer, he is on the radar of a slew of Premier League clubs and also Scottish giants Rangers.
Their manager, Steven Gerrard, is here at Quinta do Lagos on holidays, a matter of minutes up the road from the Irish team’s training base.
“I’ll see what happens over next few months,” said Connell.
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