Gibson waiting on Irish outcome
On-loan Wolves midfielder Darron Gibson's international future is still uncertain because of a dispute over Ulster-born players representing the Republic of Ireland, it has been claimed.
On-loan Wolves midfielder Darron Gibson's international future is still uncertain because of a dispute over Ulster-born players representing the Republic of Ireland, it has been claimed.
The Irish Football Association – the governing body in Northern Ireland – claim they are still awaiting a decision from FIFA on Gibson's future despite reports last month that the 19-year-old had won his case.
FIFA are debating whether the Republic of Ireland are allowed to call up players who were born north of the border and their decision could affect Gibson, who already has two full caps for the Republic.
It was widely reported that FIFA had ruled against the Football Association of Ireland, the governing body in the south of Ireland, but would allow Gibson to continue playing for the Republic. However, IFA chief Howard Wells said he was "surprised" by the reports.
He said: "FIFA has told us that they will make a judgement before the end of October and we have not yet heard anything from them".
Gibson was born in Northern Ireland and played for Northern Ireland under-16s but then opted for the Republic. He has played for the Republic's under-17s, under-19s and under-21s and won two full caps with the senior team.
He was called up after the Republic quoted the Good Friday Agreement as justification for calling up players from the whole island of Ireland.