James McClean has defended Mark Sykes's decision to switch his international football allegiance from Northern Ireland to the Republic of Ireland.
BBC Northern Ireland first reported over the weekend that the Oxford United player had indicated his intention to the IFA. Northern Ireland manager Ian Baraclough said on Monday that he was "shocked" when the 23-year-old informed him of his decision.
"You can’t help being who you are," McClean, who like Sykes played at U21 level for Northern Ireland, told Talksport.
"It's how you're born, it's in you. I was quite vocal and completely honest in the past: I'm an Irishman I had no intention of ever playing for the North.
"I took advantage of a system that was there, I’ve said that in the past. But my dream, and I’m sure it’s Mark’s dream as well, as a young Irishman is to play for Ireland. It’s a decision he’s made and... It's really not a decision he's made, he’s born an Irishman and he wants to play for his country.
"He’s had a very good year with Oxford so best of luck to him and hopefully he has a path that goes the same way mine has.
"There’s a system there in the island of Ireland, and I suppose it’s not nice for fans of the North and people associated with the North. The system’s there and there’s an opportunity to better yourself.
"I was still at Derry City when Nigel Worthington named me in the [Northern Ireland] senior squad. It was never my ambition to play for the North and I told them. It was my ambition to play for Ireland.
"I can’t speak for Mark, and I don't know the lad personally, but I’m sure that’s the same for him."
Sykes, a midfielder, played 39 times for Oxford in all competitions last season as the club reached the League One playoffs, losing out to Wycombe in the final. He scored three times last season and provided seven assists.
Picture credit: Sportsfile
