Ireland Boss Admits He Called Up Southampton Whizkid Because Of Interest From Nigeria

Republic of Ireland boss Martin O'Neill has admitted that he handed a maiden senior call-up to Southampton wonderkid Michael Obafemi because of interest from Nigeria.

Obafemi is among four uncapped players in Ireland's 36-man provisional squad announced on Tuesday and will become cap-tied to his country of birth if he makes his competitive debut against Denmark on November 19.

O'Neill wants to cap the Saints youngster and Heart of Midlothian's Jimmy Dunne because other countries are involved.

''It would be ridiculous of me to say that wouldn’t be a part of that," O'Neill was quoted as saying by Irish Mirror.

''I spoke to young Dunne, he was delighted with the call and I think he genuinely wants to play for us and that’s important.

''I was less concerned about Obafemi, I think his desire is to play for us at the end of it all.

"I’ve known from the past that even players involved in a 36/37 man squad always get a lift from that.''

Obafemi has been named to Ireland's provisional roster after playing 25 minutes of senior football for Southampton.

The Dublin born striker is also eligible to represent England youth teams.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel