Republic of Ireland boss Giovanni Trapattoni is not about the lose the services of Hamilton Accies' James McCarthy without a fight. McCarthy has the chance to not switch allegiances to Scotland despite representing the Republic of Ireland at Under 21 level. Scotland are sounding out the possibility of McCarthy playing for them as FIFA rules state any player can switch their international allegiance if they have not won a full cap and are under the age of 21.

McCarthy was born in Glasgow, but opted to play for the Republic, who he qualifies for through his grandparents. Trapattoni plans to speak to the highly-rated teenager and has hinted he could be included in the friendly with Poland on 19th November to ensure he stays with Ireland. Trapattoni said: "We will see if he is Irish or Scottish - but I think he will play for Ireland. I haven't spoken to him yet myself, but I will speak to him soon. I know he has two possibilities, Scotland and Ireland. I think he will choose Ireland and maybe he will play in the next friendly."