Ireland eye swoop for Accies star Docherty

HAMILTON midfielder Greg Docherty could become the subject of an international tug of war between Scotland and the Republic of Ireland. The 20-year-old (below) has previously won two caps for Scotland’s Under-21 side. However, despite an excellent start to the season with Accies, he was not included in Scot Gemmill’s squad for last night’s European Championship qualifier against Holland. Sportsmail understands the FAI are keeping tabs on Docherty’s situation as he qualifies to represent the Republic through his Donegal-born grandparents. FIFA eligibility rules allow a player to switch nationality provided they have not played in a senior competitive international. If the Irish were to succeed with interest in Docherty, it could carry echoes of the situation that surrounded exHamilton midfielder James McCarthy. The Castlemilkborn player became part of the Republic’s youth set-up aged 16 before progressing into their senior side. Accies manager Martin Canning revealed he had made contact with Gemmill after neither Docherty nor defender Scott McMann were selected for the Under21s. ‘I can’t control what happens outwith our club,’ said Canning. ‘All I can do is get these guys performing well for us and what will be will be. ‘I actually phoned Scot to have a chat with him because, in my opinion, Greg should be involved given the season he’s had so far and the way he finished last season. He is one of the best midfielders of that age in Scotland.’