LEEDS UNITED DEFENDER Alex Bruce has switched allegiances to Northern Ireland.
The 26-year-old has already been capped for the Republic of Ireland on two occasions but both were friendly appearances and so will not prevent the change of heart.
Instead, Northern Ireland boss Nigel Worthington is hoping Bruce, son of Sunderland manager Steve, will be available for the team’s Euro 2012 qualifier against the Faroe Islands next month.
“Subject to getting Fifa clearance, Alex wants to play for Northern Ireland. We’re delighted that he has made the decision.”
Bruce had been considering his options since last month, when Worthington said he seemed “very enthusiastic” about the idea, and has not been involved in Giovanni Trapattoni’s set up for over the past two years.