FIFA grant Jack Grealish's request to play for England
Thursday 17 March 2016 17:56, UK
Jack Grealish is eligible to be selected for England after his request to swap associations from the Republic of Ireland was granted by FIFA.
The 20-year-old had previously represented the Republic of Ireland, who he is eligible to play for through his grandparents, at every level up to under-21s.
However he rejected a call-up by Martin O'Neill to the senior side last summer and subsequently announced his decision to switch his allegiance to England, the country of his birth, in September.
"I've decided to give my allegiance to England," Grealish announced on Twitter at the time.
"It was not an easy decision as Ireland has a special place with me through my family. However, I have decided to represent my country of birth."
His application to switch allegiances was submitted to FIFA months ago but has only recently been granted.
The midfielder is currently out with an ankle injury and has not featured for Villa in the league since starting a 3-1 defeat to Sunderland on January 2.
Despite his eligibility, he is "highly unlikely" to be considered for selection by Roy Hodgson for Euro 2016, according to Sky sources.
