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Chelsea Prospect Chris Atherton Clears FIFA Switch to Republic of Ireland

The 17-year-old becomes immediately eligible for FAI youth selection following his change from Northern Ireland.

Overview

  • FIFA confirmed the transfer of association on Feb. 26, finalizing his move to the FAI.
  • He is under consideration for next month’s European U19 Championship qualifiers, according to reporting.
  • The Armagh native previously earned 11 caps for Northern Ireland U17s, a change allowed as he has no senior cap.
  • He joined Chelsea’s academy from Glenavon last summer and signed his first professional contract on his 17th birthday.
  • Belfast Live reports his family received online abuse after the announcement, with his father stating “Our son is Irish.”