He was never picked by the Republic at underage level and so Northern Ireland called him up for I think it was for the Centenary Shield and they have picked him at all levels since. I'm sure he would have jumped at the chance to represent the Republic at the time. Michael O'Neill highly rates him and if it wasnt for injury he would have more than likely have went with the senior squad on their trip to South America earlier in the summer. Northern Ireland have been loyal to him and he has been loyal to the Northern Ireland set up. They are giving boys from their underage set up the chance to step up to the seniors. They have too. I know he played with Michael Duffy and it now looks like he is switching allegiance. Thats his choice. His dad is from Donegal too just like Shane Duffy. I do think that the Anthem is off putting to many of the players as they have no loyalty to somebody elses Anthem. They should get their own just like Scotland and Wales. I shouldnt be giving them good advice, lol.
The youth set up in the Republic was pretty much a joke under Packie Bonner and many potential players of the future were not looked after or developed properly. We can see that with the dearth of talent coming through. The new league of Ireland youth structure are a step in the rite direction as it is very difficult to make it overseas now and many potential players of the future for Ireland are wasting their time playing in the under 23 set up in England etc. Players are more likely to develop playing in the lower leagues or in league of Ireland clubs much better. Real football/Mens football.