Stephen Mallon declares for North in 'decision made with my head rather than my heart'

"I’ve grown up always wanting to play for Ireland but I feel switching to Northern Ireland is a good footballing move for me"

Stephen Mallon, right, celebrates with Derry City team-mates Ibrahim Meite and Ciaron Harkin, left, after scoring their second goal during the FAI tie with Drogheda at the weekend. Picture: Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile

Derry City midfielder Stephen Mallon has announced that his international future lies with Northern Ireland - just days after turning down a call-up to the Republic's U21 squad.

The 21-year-old Belfast native made the decision after speaking with both nations' senior managers Stephen Kenny and Ian Baraclough.