Down through the years, we have seen quite a few players switch international allegiances in order to throw their lot in with the Republic of Ireland.
A number of footballers who lined out for Northern Ireland at youth level have done so, such as the likes of James McClean, Shane Duffy, and Mark Sykes. Other examples in current squad include Callum Robinson (England) and Mikey Johnston (Scotland).
Of course, we have also seen players go in the opposite direction. Declan Rice and Jack Grealish are the two most high profile examples, with that pair going on to establish themselves as key players for England. As well as that, quite a few Irish-born footballers have gone on to represent other nations around the globe.
Former Ireland U21 squad member makes international switch
Ireland youth players going on to represent other nations is something that is likely to become all the more common in the years ahead, especially as the population in this country becomes increasingly diversified.
That is no bad thing, especially when it offers young players the opportunity to play at international level that may not be forthcoming with Ireland.
This is a prime example of that.
Will Hondermack was born in France, but moved to Ireland at the age of five with his parents. He would go on to spend the rest of his childhood in this country, eventually making a breakthrough at Drogheda United.
He would soon be snapped up by Norwich City, since playing for Barnsley and now Northampton Town.
The midfielder has previously been called up by Ireland at U21 level, although the 22-year old seems quite a way off making a breakthrough at senior level. However, he has now been offered that opportunity by another nation.
This comes after Will Hondermack was called up by Congo for their game against Mali next week. He qualifies for the nation via his mother, who is of Congolese descent.
It seems Will Hondermack has declared for Congo as he has been called up to the upcoming internationals.
I personally have no problem with Will deciding to switch nations as despite being a talented lad his chances of playing for Ireland are slim!
Best of luck Will🇨🇬 pic.twitter.com/NzPM7aYZa9— Rep of Ireland Player Tracker (@reptracker) June 9, 2023
Hondermack had previously said he was keen to represent Ireland at international level, although this was an opportunity that was clearly too difficult to turn down.
The player joined Northampton in January of this year, going on to make 17 appearances in League Two as the club achieved promotion to League One.
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