Paul McGrath: 'Jack Grealish could have played more for Republic of Ireland'

By Steven Toplis, Reporter | 29 September 2015

Ex-Aston Villa and Republic of Ireland defender Paul McGrath claims that Jack Grealish will find it hard to establish himself in the England side.

Former Aston Villa and Republic of Ireland defender Paul McGrath has suggested that Jack Grealish will find it hard to establish himself as a regular in the England side.

The Villa winger announced on Monday that he intends to represent the Three Lions rather than Ireland at international level, despite playing for the Irish up to Under-21 level in the past.

McGrath, who won 83 caps for Ireland, has said that Grealish could end up regretting his decision to choose England.

"Jack's a very young man. He's had a huge decision to make. But I would have opted for Ireland if I was him because I think his chances of getting a regular spot with the England team would be a little more limited," RTE quotes him as saying.

"That's what they could do. Play him in a couple of games and then he finds that he's shut out a little bit. Talented player though he is, at the age he is, he still has a lot to prove.

"Aston Villa haven't been winning games but he's been playing really well and has shown that he has great ability. He would have got more regular international football with Ireland and it would have been great if he had picked us."

Grealish made 19 appearances for Ireland at youth level.