Irish fans plead with Patrick Bamford to declare for Republic of Ireland after Gareth Southgate snub
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Southgate ‘saddened’ by racist abuse aimed at English players
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There have been fresh calls urging Leeds United striker Patrick Bamford to declare for the Republic of Ireland.
English-born Bamford scored 17 goals in the 2020/21 Premier League season but was snubbed by England manager Gareth Southgate who named a provisional 33-man squad for Euro 2020 on Tuesday morning.
The 27-year-old represented Ireland at Under 18 level and is eligible to play for the Republic due to the grandparent rule.
But earlier this season he admitted: “The idea of being selected for England is a dream.
“If I got one England cap in the whole of my career, I’d be over the moon.”
Despite his clear preference for an England call-up, Irish fans have passionately urged Bamford to make himself available to Republic of Ireland boss Stephen Kenny.
One Twitter user wrote: “Come play for Ireland Paddy. We would love you and with you we could qualify for major tournaments.”
Journalist Kieran Cunningham said: “Patrick Bamford might as well just declare for Ireland.”
Another said: “Patrick Bamford, get yourself pledged for Ireland. If being second in the English player stats with 17 goals not to mention 7 assists, can’t even get you in a provisional squad of 33, then bin England. As a Leeds fan I’m glad you are not going. Have a rest lad. F*** em!”
A fourth social media user said: “No Bamford in the England Squad??? Strange decision. Perhaps it’s time for him to consider a call-up to the Ireland squad.”
Another user said: “Bamford has to declare for Ireland now. Funny to think Grealish, Rice, Kane, and Maguire could have all played for Ireland.”
A sixth said: “Play for Ireland Patrick Bamford. Score a ton of goals and give the finger to Southgate while ya at it. Disgrace you ain’t been picked.”