Northern Ireland manager Michael O'Neill has affirmed that FIFA eligibility rules will not influence his squad selection. This statement comes as Arsenal teenager Ceadach O'Neill, 18, who has two senior caps for Northern Ireland, is reportedly also being approached by the Republic of Ireland.
O'Neill stated he would not put a player on the pitch solely to tie them to Northern Ireland before other associations show interest, calling it "unfair on the player." He emphasised that players like Ceadach O'Neill earned their opportunities through merit, such as training well.
The Northern Ireland squad for the upcoming Nations League quadruple-header includes four teenagers: Ceadach O'Neill, Blackburn Rovers defender Tom Atcheson, Everton forward Braiden Graham, and Liverpool winger Kieran Morrison, currently on loan at Sheffield Wednesday. O'Neill believes their inclusion will aid their club careers and protect the national team's future.
Northern Ireland's Nations League campaign is set to begin away to Georgia on 25 September.