While Ireland have had a long history of bringing English-born players into the international fold, one notable aspect of their underage squads in recent years is just how many players born on the continent are now declaring for the Boys in Green.
Some incredibly talented youngsters who have spent their lives living in other European countries have lined out for Ireland in the various youth levels over the last few seasons. The likes of Conor Noss and Ryan Johansson currently find themselves in Jim Crawford's U21 setup, while you also have Anselmo Garcia McNulty, Cristiano Fitzgerald, and Caden McLoughlin lining out in the younger age groups.
It is certainly encouraging sign to see the FAI broadening their pool of potential players, with another promising young player perhaps hinting that he could consider a switch to Ireland in the future.
19-year old Mainz winger Paul Nebel is an exciting prospect, making three appearances in the Bundesliga so far this season. He has also been capped by Germany at various levels, including for their U20 side earlier this year.
However, it appears as though he also has a strong connection to Ireland.
Speaking to the Mainz's website, Nebel revealed that his grandmother hails from Ireland and is looking at applying for an Irish passport in the future.
My Grandmother is Irish, my Mother is half-Irish and the country is like a second home to me.
I don't have an Irish passport yet but I'm thinking about applying for it because I have roots there and I'm proud of them.
While Nebel doesn't say outright that he will declare for Ireland, applying for a passport would be the first step in lining out for the country at international level.
Breaking into the Germany setup at senior level would certainly be no easy task and the player may see Ireland as a more realistic possibility.
It is certainly one to keep an eye on.
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