“International football helps any player so if you get the opportunity to play it, you should take it.”
Ross County and Republic of Ireland man Ronan Hale will be switching to Northern Ireland in the coming weeks.
The Belfast Telegraph reported FIFA will ratify the 26-year-old’s switch in the coming weeks, following a lengthy process, which began prior to his move to Ross County in July.
The striker has previously togged out for the Republic of Ireland U19s and U21s, and he also played for St Pat’s as well as Derry City on loan.
Hale’s move to Ross County came after a hugely successful spell with Cliftonville, during which he scored 50 goals across two seasons. This included two in their 2024 Irish Cup final win over bitter rivals Linfield.
The Belfast man has scored five goals league goals in 22 appearances for Ross County, as they sit second from bottom in the Scottish Premiership.
Back in August, Northern Ireland manager Michael O’Neill spoke about the prospect of Hale switching allegiances.
He said: “Ronan and I spoke before he went to Ross County and then shortly after, and he indicated he wanted to go through the international transfer process, for which he’s doing the paperwork.
“He’s lodged it with FIFA, so we have to wait until that’s confirmed. International football helps any player so if you get the opportunity to play it, you should take it.
“We have had conversations with other players who are eligible but have chosen not to do that at this moment in time. Ronan was very willing to do it.”
