Young Football Sensation Chris Atherton Switches International Allegiance from Northern Ireland to Republic of Ireland
Chris Atherton, who made history as the UK’s youngest senior footballer at 13, has switched his international allegiance from Northern Ireland to the Republic of Ireland. The Chelsea academy player had previously represented Northern Ireland at youth levels.
This move is seen as a significant blow for Northern Ireland, particularly after Atherton’s prominent role in the Euro 2028 bid. He joins a list of players who have previously switched from Northern Ireland to the Republic of Ireland.