Southampton striker Michael Obafemi has committed his international future to his country of birth, the Republic of Ireland, according to his intermediary, Playerworks CSM Agency.

There has been speculation over the national team he will represent as he is also eligible to play for Nigeria through his parents and England, the country where he was raised.

The 18-year-old was a surprise inclusion in the latest Republic of Ireland senior squad after less than 30 minutes of game time for Southampton's first team and could make his debut against Northern Ireland this evening.

"Due to current speculation surrounding Michael Obafemi and as Michael's representatives, we would like to go on record to say that we are not in talks with either Nigeria or England, nor is it something we have ever pursued,'' Playerworks CSM Agency said in a statement released on behalf of Obafemi.

"Since Mark O'Toole spotted Michael early on, he, along with the other staff at Ireland, have given Michael a great opportunity, which he has enjoyed immensely.

"Michael was born in Ireland, so this is the country he naturally wants to play for.

"Martin O'Neill has shown great faith in Michael and he wants to repay that faith by helping the team achieve success.

"Michael is 100 per cent committed to Ireland and is looking forward to an exciting future with the national team."

The Football Association of Ireland has published a photo on Twitter showing an Ireland jersey with Obafemi's name and the number 20 inscribed on it.

Igho Kingsley