Former Nottingham Forest striker Patrick Bamford has so far resisted overtures to make himself available to the Republic of Ireland.
Bamford is eligible to play for the Republic owing to his grandparents, but has so far failed to commit, and that’s ruffled the feathers of Robbie Keane.
The ex-Wolves, Tottenham and Liverpool striker, and assistant to boss Mick McCarthy says his country should not be chasing players from England, and instead pick only those ones who wish to be involved.
“You’re representing your country and if you want to play for Ireland, you come play for us.
“We’re not going to go and chase you,” a furious Keane told the Irish Sun.
Last week, McCarthy admitted it was down to the ex-Forest academy graduate to make the call, something that left Keane frustrated.
“I’ll tell you with Patrick Bamford, he should be chasing us. He should want to come here. If he doesn’t want to, no problem,” he said.
“We shouldn’t be chasing people, by the way.
“They should want to play for us. If they don’t, then no problem. Why should we go and chase people?
“We have qualified in the last few years for two Euros, World Cup 2002. If you want to come, come. Represent your country and be proud to play for your country.
“If you don’t, don’t waste anybody’s time. Don’t waste the manager’s time.
“And I am not speaking specifically about Bamford. I am talking about everybody. Anybody.
“Don’t just use us as a tool, if you like, for maybe other countries to come in for you. Be proud of your country.
“Be proud to play for Ireland."
