Post by Taxigirl on Feb 20, 2004 13:06:20 GMT
Brian Kerr is believed to be keen to persuade Bolton midfielder Kevin Nolan to switch his international allegiance from England to his Republic of Ireland.
Kerr is looking to add new players to his squad and he is ready to capitalise on Fifa's new rule changes to bring Nolan into his plans.
The Irish boss has been alerted to Nolan's availability as he qualifies for Ireland through his grandparents and he is thought to be considering his international future after failing to establish himself in the England Under-21 side.
Nolan was again overlooked for this week's game with Holland despite his impressive form for Bolton and Kerr is hoping to persuade him his future lies with Ireland.
Kerr is a big fan of the 21-year-old and tried to get him to represent Republic of Ireland at youth levels when he was in charge of the under-age sides.
Kerr is now set to push ahead with his plans to get Nolan in his squad for next month's friendly with Czech Republic.
"Different players will be used when we play the Czech Republic next month," said Kerr.
"It was difficult to try new things during the last round of qualifiers, but I have that opportunity now and I won't waste it."
Meanwhile, Republic defender Andy O'Brien is hoping to establish himself as a regular in Kerr's plans after his superb performance in the goalless draw with Brazil in midweek.
The Newcastle stopper helped shackle Ronaldo and company on Wednesday night and he is keen to keep hold of his place in the side after being left on the sidelines for the most of the Euro 2004 qualifying campaign.
"I am never going to take for granted that I am going to play for Ireland, but I have played in the Champions League with Newcastle for the past two seasons and I have over 120 first-team appearances at the club, so that will always stand me in good stead with Ireland," said O'Brien.
"I only played about five minutes in the Euro 2004 qualifying campaign, but I would obviously like to play more if possible."