Wayne’s younger brother set for Ireland

Apr 16 2008 by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Daily Post

WAYNE ROONEY’S younger brother John could soon be making his international football debut – for the Republic of Ireland.

And another member of the extended family looks set to follow him.

That means the former Everton player could face his brother in an international.

Reports have emerged that 17-year-old midfielder, who currently plays for League Two side Macclesfield Town, is considering declaring for the Republic. Like his famous brother, John was also on the books of Everton, but was released at the age of 14.

He made his first team debut last month and, with the Republic due to play in next month’s U17 European Championships in Turkey, he could soon be fast-tracked into the Irish set-up and ex-Ireland striker Tony Cascarino hailed the news as “fantastic”.

The former Chelsea, Celtic and Aston Villa forward said: “I’ve never heard of two brothers playing for different countries before, so this would be a footballing boundary crossed. It’s a strange one all right but, if John is anything like Wayne, we’ll be delighted to have him play for us.

“I’m sure the Rooneys will see the funny side of it.

“I’d just encourage him to enjoy the Irish set-up and the relationship with the fans because it’s very special.”

And, incredibly, a Rooney cousin is also looking at linking up with the Irish national team.

Tommy Amos, 16, from Wavertree, currently plays for Wigan Athletic’s youth team and qualifies through his Dublin-born grandmother.

Amos, who turned down Everton to join the Latics, said: “I haven’t been to Ireland but my gran has always talked about me playing for Ireland.

“If the chance came up I would love to play for Ireland.”