Celtic winger Mikey Johnston has declared his allegiance to the Republic of Ireland.
The 23-year-old has received FIFA international clearance to turn out for Stephen Kenny's side moving forward.
The Hoops academy product has decided to play for Ireland rather than await any potential call-up to the Scotland national team.
Johnston, who is currently on loan at Primeira Liga side Vitória Guimarães, has completed the eligibility process and is now available for selection ahead of Ireland's international fixtures against Latvia and France later this month.
Born in Glasgow, Johnston qualifies for Ireland through his granddad who was from Derry.
Johnston has enjoyed an impressive season for Vitória where he has made 20 appearances in all competitions, scoring three goals and providing three assists.
The attacker said: "I'm delighted to declare for the Republic of Ireland and excited for what my future holds in an Ireland shirt.
"Myself and my family have always been proud of our Irish roots with my grandad hailing from Derry and to potentially now play for Ireland is something that really excites me.
"It's up to me now to impress the manager and to get selected to the squad but my focus now is to break into that squad and to make an impact for the team in a big year for the team.
"I've always watched Ireland matches and the atmosphere always looks incredible. I can't wait to play at the Aviva Stadium and hopefully create some great moments for the team."
"Mikey is an exciting player, a great individual talent and we're delighted to see him declare for the Republic of Ireland," said Ireland manager Stephen Kenny.
"I'm looking forward to seeing him play at the Aviva Stadium, dribbling in the way that he can and we look forward to helping him fulfil his potential in an Ireland shirt."
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