O’Hara considers Ireland switch

SPURS midfielder Jamie O’Hara has confirmed he will make a decision this summer over whether to switch allegiances and play for Ireland.

The 23-year-old, who starred on loan for Portsmouth this season, has played for England at U21 level, but never made the step up to senior level and, under a change in FIFA’s eligibility rules, is still free to declare for Ireland for whom he qualifies through his grandparents.

“I’ve always loved playing for England so I wouldn’t want to upset anyone or disrespect the Ireland people as well, because I’ve got a lot of family in Ireland,” said O’Hara. “It’s going to be a difficult decision to make and I don’t want it to become a big deal in a way.”