Derry’s McClean switches loyalty

GARETH MCAULEY has brushed aside James McClean’s decision to snub Northern Ireland and says the team’s Euro 2012 hopes will not be sidetracked by the issue.

Nigel Worthington handed the highly-rated Derry City forward a first call-up for tomorrow night’s Group C qualifier against Brian Kerr’s Faroe Islands only for the 22-year-old to withdraw, citing a desire to represent the Republic of Ireland instead.

McClean had played for Northern Ireland at youth and Under-21 level but has now declared his intention to take advantage of a FIFA ruling that allows players born in Northern Ireland to play for either national side.