Gunner Crowley could yet go green
Born in Coventry, the 17-year-old has played for both England and Ireland at underage level, with his England currently his country of choice.
Fifa rules permit the midfielder to make one more switch in allegiance before he commits to one nation. While Hodgson, who personally spoke to the teen last November, believes he’s got one of the major Premier League prospects under his wing, Crowley’s past mentor has given Martin O’Neill and Roy Keane plenty of encouragement to stay in the hunt.
Seamus Hartnett, the starlet’s GAA coach at Coventry’s Roger Casements before soccer took his fancy, foresees Crowley lining out for Ireland.
“Danny is Irish at heart and supports the Irish team,” revealed Hartnett.
“Of course I believe it will happen — unless soccer politics get involved. He has played for England and Ireland so far, I think the appearances for England upped his profile over here.
“His grandparents are from Waterford and his parents are involved in the Irish community in Coventry. His father still plays football for St Finbarr’s in Coventry. He visits his family in Waterford regularly. He is a well-grounded lad who loves his family and spends as much time with them as he can.”
It was while Crowley dazzled for Aston Villa’s Academy team that he initially represented Ireland at U15 level, continuing up to U17s.
Not only England but also Arsenal began sniffing around the gem during 2013, resulting in the Gunners compensating Villa to the tune of €1m for their prize asset. His repertoire of magical moments has expanded since moving to London, with the playmaker’s skills making him a YouTube sensation.
Having recently signed his first professional contract upon turning 17, Crowley will be expected by Arsenal to concentrate on club matters.
But while he is likely stick with England for this season’s U19 Uefa qualifying campaign, Ireland may yet win his heart in the long run.
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