Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall could switch international allegiance to Ireland after being left out of Thomas Tuchel's latest England squad. The Everton midfielder, who has impressed this season, was again overlooked for the Three Lions' November fixtures against Croatia and world champions Spain.
Another England omission
Tuchel's squad announcement followed a strong September international break, in which England won three of their four Nations League matches. The only defeat came against Spain, a result England will have the chance to avenge in the upcoming fixtures.
The squad was affected by a long-term injury to Alex Scott, who impressed during the September internationals. Despite that, there was no place for Dewsbury-Hall, with Jobe Bellingham selected ahead of him.
Ireland option available
A call-up would have been Dewsbury-Hall's first at any level, as he has not represented England even at youth level. However, through family heritage, the 28-year-old is eligible to represent Ireland instead.
Dewsbury-Hall has previously played down rumours of a switch, describing playing for England as a "dream". He has been key for Everton, who recently secured a Carabao Cup quarter-final berth and moved into the European qualification spots.
Tuchel acknowledges quality
After inspiring Everton to a win over Coventry, Dewsbury-Hall said: "It was a disappointing morning, I'm not going to lie. It's a massive dream of mine to play for my country. I know I was close. [I'm] sad, yeah, but really proud of myself and how I have reacted. All I can keep doing is putting in good performances and hopefully one day I get the nod, because I'm never going to give up."
Tuchel remarked: "He is close. A very good player, a very good season. I see him, in the way we play now, I don't see him in central midfield - more as an eight or a 10, in the finishing part of the game. The competition is very, very high in our squad in this position. As you know he was in our squad of 55 [for the World Cup]. You can see his quality and he was very close."
Given his age and form, the chance to play international football for Ireland might prove tempting if the Irish FA pursue him, though Dewsbury-Hall may also choose to wait for another England opportunity.
