While many Irish supporters have grown tired of the FAI's policy of recruiting English born players to Irish international sides, it shows no signs of stopping.

Of course chasing players who have no interest in playing for us is another matter, but Ireland need to bring in as many talented players as we can. In terms of pure talent, there may not be a better potential recruit out there than this one.

The Irish Independent are reporting that the FAI have made an approach to Leicester City's James Maddison about switching his international allegiances to Ireland. The player is believed to be open to the move.

The 22-year old qualifies for Ireland through one of his grandparents, and has been on the FAI's radar since his days at Coventry City. He was part of the England side at theU21 European Championships this summer, and was also named in one English squad at senior level although he is yet to play.

The Irish Independent state that the FAI have been told that Maddison could make the switch to Ireland if he is overlooked for England's Euro 2020 qualifiers against Kosovo and Bulgaria.


Unfortunately, it seems likely he will be part of Gareth Southgate's squad. Madisson has been in sparkling form to start the season, most notably in the draw away at Chelsea. With Southgate's policy of giving young players a chance at senior level, you would expect him to receive a call-up in the coming weeks.

If he were to make the move to Ireland, he is exactly the type of player Mick McCarthy is lacking in his squad. He is incredibly creative and has the ability to unlock a defence. He is very tidy on the ball, and is also capable of producing moments of magic.

We'd love to see this one get over the line, but we don't have high hopes.

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