Republic of Ireland manager Mick McCarthy has revealed that he intends to speak to Leeds United striker Patrick Bamford, as he explores further players who could turn out for the country.

Bamford is connected to Ireland through his maternal grandmother and did turn out for the Republic of Ireland at Under-18 level, befoe switching to England.




The 25-year-old turned out for England at Under-18, Under-19 and Under-21 level, but at the age of 25 is some distance from the senior squad mix under Gareth Southgate.

Bamford has recently returned to action from injury and scored against Bolton Wanderers; he was absent for Leeds' win at Aston Villa with a little niggle though.
 


McCarthy knows Bamford qualifies for Ireland and is ready to speak to someone he rates as a goalscorer.

"I have asked about him, I've asked about lots of players like I normally do", McCarthy was quoted as saying by the Yorkshire Evening Post.
 

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"My intention is to speak to Patrick. He does qualify.

"He is a terrific goalscorer, Patrick.

"He's played against my teams.

"He just puts the ball in the net and you can't have enough of those."

Leeds splashed out big money to sign Bamford from Middlesbrough in the summer transfer window.