With the crucial World Cup qualifier against France set for tomorrow the FAI has attempted to close the door on the long-running Stephen Ireland saga by asking him to change his surname.
The Mire has seen a copy of a letter from the FAI’s Chief Executive John Delaney to the Manchester City star in which Mr Delaney accepts that the footballer does not wish to play for his country.
“We fully respect your decision,” the letter says. “However, we feel it will help bring closure to this issue if you take the small step of changing your surname to reflect the situation properly.
“If it is of any help, we held an office poll and the following names were suggested: Cromwell, Denning, Thatcher and Shipman. Obviously the choice is ultimately yours.”
Mr Ireland was not available for comment. “What are they on?” his spokesman said.
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