MARTIN O’Neill is setting his sights on an alternative to Jack Grealish after holding talks with the father of promising Arsenal youngster Daniel Crowley.
Although Grealish is yet to confirm his allegiance at senior international level, the Aston Villa midfielder is thought to have made up his mind in favour of England over Ireland.
And Republic boss O’Neill isn’t dwelling on the issue, with 18-year-old Gunners prospect Crowley already on his radar having represented both Ireland and, most recently, England at youth level.
Crowley, who was born in Coventry but has Irish grandparents, is currently on loan at Barnsley and O’Neill has admitted his interest in calling up the midfield playmaker to his senior squad.
“We would have a real, genuine interest in that,” he said. “I think the young lad has really decent ability.
“I spoke to his father and we had a very civil conversation. He’s a very, very pleasant man. He certainly looks as if he possesses the ability to go on and be a really decent player.
“He looks as if he wants to demand the ball as well which is great in someone so young and he looks to have a decent future.”
