Updated at 12.30
MARTIN O’NEILL HAS told Mark Noble: if you want to play for Ireland, you have to come to me.
O’Neill named an extended 37-man squad this morning for the Euro 2016 qualifiers against Gibraltar and Germany but West Ham’s Noble was not included.
The midfielder captained England at U21 level but is eligible to switch to Ireland.
O’Neill insisted that the player has to make the first move.
“I haven’t spoken to Mark Noble. I get back to the point that I’ve said umpteen times — if people want to show willingness to come and play for us, that is absolutely fine by me.
“I’m not going to chase it, I’m not going to chase that particular one. I’ll look at it, I’ll see, but I won’t be chasing it.”
He added: “I saw where he was talking on some TV programme where he was obviously disappointed with not getting into the England squad — absolutely fine, no problem. I found out since that he said he wanted to take his time or something.
“Mark’s a fine player but I’m not chasing it. I think he will have to come to me at some stage or another.”
Another player who could make the switch in the near future is Ipswich striker David McGoldrick.
O’Neill watched the 26-year-old on TV on Monday as Ipswich beat Wigan 2-1 — a game in which Conor Sammon scored for Mick McCarthy’s side.
“I think we’re chasing that up at the minute. I think there’s a genuine connection.
“I watched him play last night although it was only on TV. He’s definitely got ability.
“Those type of players I’m hoping within the next few months, or certainly within the next year, will hopefully come to the fore.”
