Everton's teenage defender Shane Duffy has switched his allegiance to the Republic of Ireland.

Duffy is from Northern Ireland and has appeared for various youth sides as well as their Under-21 side but has now decided his future lies as part of the Republic of Ireland setup.

The central defender, 18, has made two senior appearances for Everton this season after moving to Merseyside aged 16.

He had been named in the senior Northern Ireland squad squad for their upcoming friendly with Albania before the change of allegiance was confirmed by their manager Nigel Worthington.

He said: "There is a loophole where a player can walk away after a lot of time and investment has gone in. Until it resolved, that's where we are. Shane has represented Northern Ireland all the way through from a very early age to the Under-21s.

"I am a big admirer of Shane. I like him as a player and a lot of work has gone in with different coaches. I am disappointed with the situation as he is going to be a very good player. Shane has decided, after discussing the matter with his family, to represent the Republic. As a manager, I have got to respect that."