Patrick Bamford is a man in form, having banged in a brace for Leeds United against West Brom on Friday night. Still only 25-years old, he is a player that possesses plenty of potential. After some bad news in terms of our international recruits in recent times, it looks as though he may be set to commit to Ireland.
It has been rumoured for a number of weeks that he would pledge his international future to the Republic of Ireland, and with his recent return to form after an injury layoff, he would be a very welcome addition to the squad.
Speaking to the FAI's official website this evening, Ireland boss Mick McCarthy confirmed that he had been in touch with the striker this weekend, and is set to meet Bamford over the coming weeks in an attempt to try and get the player on board:
We’ve exchanged text messages and Patrick is keen to meet up in the coming weeks so it is just a matter of him finding a date that works - I’ll happily meet him whenever he can do it.
McCarthy also spoke about Dan Crowley, confirming that the paperwork has been filed for his switch to the green jersey. He was part of the Willem II side which booked its place in the Dutch Cup final in midweek, and the former Ipswich manager said he will see the player in person when he comes up against Ajax in that game:
Our International Department are sorting Danny’s paperwork. Noel King brought him to my attention when I got the job and will have a look at Danny with Willem ll before I go to see him for myself when he plays against Ajax in the Dutch Cup Final in Rotterdam on May 5th.
Finally, he addressed the recent form of Luton Town striker James Collins, who scored his 20th goal of the season in front of the onlooking McCarthy on Saturday afternoon. He strongly hinted that Collins will be part of the upcoming squad for the Euro 2020 Qualifiers against Gibraltar and Georgia:
James knows the game, he gets himself about and he’s not afraid to have a shot or try a header. Most of them were on target on Saturday and he got the goal as well so I’ve plenty to think about regarding James and my squad.
