Michael Duffy is awaiting clearance to finalise his international transfer and enable him to play for the Republic of Ireland.
The 24-year-old has represented Northern Ireland up to Under-21 level, but the in-form Dundalk attacker recently confirmed that he has decided to declare for the Republic.
The paperwork has not yet been completed meaning Duffy has not been included by Martin O’Neill, the Republic of Ireland senior manager, for the friendly with Northern Ireland on November 15 and the UEFA Nations League game against Denmark.
However, O’Neill has indicated that Duffy – who netted 13 League goals for Dundalk this season – will be in his plans.
“Young Duffy is hoping to come through,” O’Neill said at a press conference yesterday.
“The paperwork is there. He’s chosen to play for us, which is great. I think he’s an exceptionally talented player.”
Duffy, whose family hail from St Johnston, lined out for Kildrum Tigers at schoolboy level before moving to Derry City.
Duffy’s former Kildrum and Derry City team-mate Ronan Curtis has again been included in a 36-man provisional Irish senior squad.
Curtis has been chosen by O’Neill for a third time and will hope to make his debut in one of the games later this month.
O’Neill will confirm his final squad on Monday next.
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