“My dad is Irish, he was born in Sligo.”
It’s not unusual to hear the Irish football team talk to each other with accents other than Irish ones.
English-born players who have Irish roots, and choose to represent the boys in green, is pat and parcel with the international team these days.
Will Keane may have represented England at u21 level, but the Wigan striker is “unbelievably proud” to represent the Irish team, and for good reason.
The 28-year-old’s story about his Sligo-born father is a very interesting one, as he explains how his journey to play for Ireland has helped reconnect his family.
Will Keane’s father.
“My dad is Irish, he was born in Sligo. He was raised there and was actually an orphan. He went to boarding school and was adopted, and moved to England when he was 10.
“Unfortunately, my dad lost touch with his roots, for obvious reasons as he was given away as a child, but to sort of reconnect with that and have the opportunity to represent Ireland is a massive honour and something I’m really proud of doing.
https://twitter.com/FAIreland/status/1458041931812929539
“Because of the circumstances, he hasn’t stayed in touch with his family, so for him to reconnect with that is a massive thing, so he’s really proud. For me to give him that gives me a lot of pleasure.”
Will Keane’s Ireland career.
Former Manchester United trainee Keane, the twin brother of Everton and England defender Michael – who represented Ireland at underage level, has had to remain patient after declaring for the Republic following interest earlier in his career.
He was called up for last month’s fixtures against Azerbaijan and Qatar but did not make the matchday squad because of injury, although he revealed club-mate James McClean has ensured he was never very far from Kenny’s thoughts.
(Photo by Pete Norton/Getty Images)“It first came on the radar a few years ago, under Mick McCarthy. That’s when I declared for Ireland, I think he was considering me for selection then. That’s quite a few years ago now.
“Since the start of this season, the manager has been coming to the games and has been watching me with James being a regular. I think he had a couple of discussions with the manager as well.
“He kept an eye on me and I was delighted to be included in the recent squad, and I’m looking forward to more.”
