[Pilkington] said: ‘I have had a call from the Republic and they are now starting to sort out all the paperwork. That’s where we are at the moment.
‘But their next game isn’t until February so we will just have to wait and see what happens now. We just have to sort out all the paperwork and then go from there really.
‘I am definitely eligible because my grandmother comes from Ireland, from Dublin. So I would be more than happy to play for them, if I am selected.’
...
Trapattoni said this weekend: ‘I haven’t spoken to Roy Hodgson about him. England have a lot of players at their disposal. I can say with certainty that he is very interested to play for us. We might be able to see him in early February.’
Norwich manager Hughton, who was born in Forest Gate, played 53 times for Ireland between 1979 and 1991 and said he would be delighted if Pilkington made his senior bow.
‘At this moment he still hasn’t been officially called into any squad,’ he said. ‘I’m always delighted for any player to be involved at international level. I think it enhances their career and there can be some real high moments in their career.’
Hughton said his choice to play for Ireland was ‘wonderful’ but stressed he had not tried to persuade Pilkington to do the same.
‘For me it was a decision that I have never, ever regretted. Anthony’s a very mature young man and any big decisions he has to make he’s very capable of making.
‘If that happens then I’d be delighted with him, but of course that’s always going to be down to himself.’
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