Aston Villa’s talented young winger, Jack Grealish, has opted to represent the English national team – as opposed to the Republic of Ireland.
The 20-year-old, who was in the headlines over the summer after a picture went viral on Twitter with the youngster lying unconscious, has already stirred controversy over his decision – which is unsurprising, albeit unfortunate for the player himself. Born in Solihull, England - to an English mother and Birmingham-born father, he was eligble to feature internationally for the ROI side through his grandparents.
Grealish confirms news on social network
Confirming the news on Twitter earlier today, he stated: "It was not an easy decision as Ireland has a special place with me through my family, but I have decided to represent the country of my birth."
Having broken into the first-team scene in the west Midlands last term, Grealish established himself as a Villa regular operating on either flank, and he’s continued to impress as he furthers his development under Tim Sherwood’s management at the club.
Jack continues to develop under Sherwood's reign
His first competitive goal for the Villans was a 20-yard effort against Leicester City a fortnight ago, but they eventually lost the game 3-2 away from home.
Gareth Southgate admitted he’d approached Grealish a year ago, and last October publicly stated that he wanted to include Jack in his England Under-21 team. He’d initially delayed discussions with all parties until the end of the season, and then stated he’d re-evaluate his options after the summer holidays.
Tug-of-war between both nations for his services internationally
Having made nineteen international appearances at youth level with the Republic of Ireland, he’d scored six goals during that time. However, because none of the matches were first-team, competitive fixtures, he was still able to change the country he’d like to represent – until he made his first senior cap.
Back in April, goalkeeper Shay Given had his say: "He should really be involved in the first-team squad at the minute with Ireland, I think. He is a young guy; you don’t want to rush him into these decisions. But in an ideal world we’d love him to play for us."
The news will come as a shock to many, especially considering the level of competition he’ll have to contend with for a starting berth in the England set-up. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Raheem Sterling and Theo Walcott amongst others, have already asserted reputable careers as England players, so it’d take a mighty effort to shift any of the attacking trio away from Roy Hodgson’s immediate plans, injury permitting.