Ronan Hale needed no persuasion to choose to switch back to representing Northern Ireland, says international boss Michael O’Neill.
The former Cliftonville striker was not named in the 25-man panel but O’Neill revealed Hale is going through the process of returning to Northern Ireland after declaring for the Republic of Ireland at U19 level.
The 25-year-old has enjoyed a whirlwind few months to bring him to the cusp of senior international football.
A stunning season with the Reds culminated in Hale scoring a dazzling brace against Linfield in the Irish Cup Final in May, including his iconic raised arms finish at the end of extra-time.
Ross County snapped him up over the summer and Hale made a great start to his Scottish Premiership career, scoring four goals to date.
His decision to opt for the Republic at underage level was down to a lack of opportunities with Northern Ireland and O’Neill said he was keen to return in discussions with the north Belfast man.
“Ronan was very willing to do it”, said O’Neill.
“He’s at an age at 25 where he has come into Ross County and needed to hit the ground running, which I think he has done.
“Ronan and I spoke before he went to Ross County and then shortly after, and he indicated he wanted to go through the international transfer process, for which he’s doing the paperwork.
“He’s lodged it with FIFA, so we have to wait until that’s confirmed. We can’t pick him at this minute in time.
“We have had conversations with other players who are eligible but have chosen not to do that at this moment in time.
“International football helps any player so if you get the opportunity to play it you should take it.”