Sinn Fein MLA Sinead Ennis says Mark Sykes' decision to play for the Republic of Ireland "should be respected".
It was confirmed yesterday that Sykes has decided to follow his international path with the Republic, despite playing for Northern Ireland at underage level.
Ian Baraclough was due to name the Oxford United midfielder in his squad to face Romania and Norway for next month's Nations League double-header.
But the 23-year-old spoke with the new Northern Ireland manager at the weekend and informed him he would be pursuing his international career with the south.
it is a major blow for Baraclough who worked with Sykes at Under 21 level, while the decision has also left a sour taste with many Northern Ireland fans who voiced their disappointment on social media.
There has also been a lot of support for Sykes in his move, including Republic of Ireland boss Stephen Kenny who said Sykes’ pride in his “Irish identity” influenced the Oxford United midfielder to declare for the south.
Meanwhile, Sinn Féin Culture, Arts and Sport spokesperson Sinead Ennis has called for respect to be given to any player from Northern Ireland who chooses to play for the Republic.
In a statement posted on the party's website, the South Down MLA said: “We have today seen confirmation that Mark Sykes has opted to seek selection for the Irish national football team as opposed to the North.
“Unfortunately, following this announcement, there has been a barrage of online abuse levelled at Mark Sykes.
“It is concerning that this abuse is happening yet again when a player from the North opts to seek selection for Ireland.
“The right of citizens from the North to Irish citizenship is a core component of the Good Friday Agreement.
“The decision by Mark Sykes to play for the Irish national side must be respected."
