The issue of nationality is a hot topic in Irish football circles. With Jack Grealish yet to decide which country he wants to play for, opinions have been flying out from all sides, with some saying he wasn't born in Ireland and shouldn't play here, while others say as long as he's eligible Ireland should push to see if Grealish will continue representing the boys in green.
Now Grealish isn't the only talking point. Ireland have famously used the "granny rule" since the Charlton era, and now there is a feud occurring over the "Irishness" of one of those players.
In the build-up to last week's FA Cup final, Shay Given was asked about the Jack Grealish situation, and the Villa keeper chose to emphasise Grealish's Irish links in a divisive way.
He has an affiliation with the country, it’s not like Cascarino or something.
Now Tony Cascarino has used his column in the Sun to react to Given's comments. Cascarino played with Given for three and a half years while their international careers overlapped, and called for those in doubt not to question his 'Irishness'.
I played with Shay Given for Ireland for three and a half years. He never once questioned my Irishness then, so I am surprised he’s done so now.
I strongly resent Shay’s suggestion that I had no affiliation for Ireland.
Because I have an Italian surname, I think I am an easy target when people discuss players born outside Ireland who played for the team.
Cascarino played for Ireland for 14 years, winning 88 caps and scoring 19 goals.
