Ryan Johansson is eligible to play for Ireland after FIFA relaxed their rules - and it could pave the way for others to follow.
The Sevilla midfielder is now poised to play a part in the Republic's under-21 internationals against Switzerland, Australia and Denmark in Spain between May 30 and June 5.
Johansson, 20, was born in Luxembourg and has a Swedish father and an Irish mother.
The ex-Bayern Munich starlet's preference was to play for Ireland and he did so in friendlies at under-18 level in 2018.
But, having played for Luxembourg at under-21 level before he had applied for an Irish passport, he was blocked by FIFA from changing allegiances under their dual eligibility rules.
He appealed that ruling 18 months ago, claiming that he hadn't realised the consequences of playing for Luxembourg. The appeal was turned down and he expressed an interest in playing for Sweden.
However FIFA have since changed that eligibility ruling and the FAI informed Johannson's family of the situation on Tuesday.
Johansson, who joined Sevilla on a long-term deal from Bayern 16 months ago, hasn't played since December - his campaign in the Segunda Division with Sevilla Atletico has been hampered by injury.
However he is highly-rated and Ireland under-21 manager Jim Crawford has kept in constant contact.
Birmingham's Daniel Crowley is another who could now come on board following the relaxation of the FIFA ruling.
