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Michael Johnston made his Celtic debut on Saturday. Jeff Holmes

FAI chasing highly rated Celtic teenager - reports

Michael Johnston, who has been linked with a move to Chelsea, is believed to be on the association’s radar.

THE FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION of Ireland are chasing highly rated Celtic youngster Michael Johnston, according to reports.

The Scottish Sun claims that representatives of the association have been in touch with the player, his family and his club, as they attempt to persuade him to declare for Ireland.

Johnston made his league debut for Celtic last weekend, starting and playing 57 minutes of the Scottish club’s 4-1 victory over St Johnstone.

Amid rumoured interest from Chelsea, the 18-year-old Glasgow-born winger recently signed a new contract, keeping him at Brendan Rodgers’ side until 2020.

He has represented Scotland at U19 level, though it is understood that he also qualifies to play for Ireland through his grandparents.

The Scottish Football Association will be hoping Johnston doesn’t follow the examples of James McCarthy and Aiden McGeady — two Scottish-born footballers who previously declared for Ireland, with both going on to enjoy sustained careers with the Boys in Green at senior level.

The FAI declined to comment on the story when contacted by The42.

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Paul Fennessy
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