BAYERN STAR REJECTS IRISH

BAYERN MUNICH rising star Ryan Johansson has slipped through the Republic of Ireland net. But the FAI will hold the door open for the Luxembourg and Sweden target if he has a change of heart. The 17-year-old midfielder made his Ireland bow last month’s in two

U19 games against Wales.

But he has since told the FAI that he does not wish to be included in the setup for the foreseeable future.

Ireland U19 boss Tom Mohan said yesterday: “Ryan got his opportunity. Obviously it’s a surprise.”

Son of an Irish mother and Swedish father, Johansson (above) was born and raised in

Luxembourg and is siding with them for now. He has played competitively for Luxembourg at underage level and FIFA only permits one more ‘change’ at that level.

Mohan added: “His next switch to play competitive football would tie him with that country for life. He doesn’t want to make that decision so early.

“It’s better to be left frustrated rather than regretful. If we don’t go after them, you’ll always regret it. But when you’ve done your work and you’ve always been diligent in how you do it, there is nothing more you can do.”

But the FAI are not giving up hope on a player (left) held in high regard by Bayern Munich.

Mohan added: “Sweden are also looking for him. Obviously he’s eligible to play for us but he’s not closing the door on us. It’s such a big decision so early, he’s keeping his options open and that’s it.

Mohan, however, is confident that promising Southampton striker Michael Obafemi is committed to Ireland.