Shane Duffy says his decision to switch his allegiance from Northern Ireland to the Republic was the right thing to do to help his international career.

The Everton defender is currently on the road to recovery from a life-threatening injury which he sustained during a training match in his first link-up with the Republic of Ireland’s senior set-up in May.

Duffy, who had been a part of Northern Ireland’s international set-up from Under-16 right through to B level, decided to represent the Republic in February in order to further his opportunities on the international stage.

And speaking to evertontv shortly after his return to the Club, Duffy explained his decision.

“It was what I wanted to do”, Duffy told evertontv. “It was difficult for me to leave because of what they've done for me in Northern Ireland since I was young. They brought me through the ranks which gave me the chance to come to Everton.

“So it was hard to leave all the coaches and all the players, but it was always a case of wanting to come to my own country. 

“I spoke to a couple of people about it because I didn't want to disrespect Northern Ireland, but I just had to do what was best for me and I thought it would be best for me to switch.

“I phoned Nigel Worthington and he just had to agree with it. He said he was disappointed.”

The Derry-born defender was understandably delighted when he heard he had been selected by manager Giovanni Trapattoni for their training camp in Dublin at the end of the 2009/10 campaign.

But Duffy’s main focus now lies solely on getting back to full fitness as quickly as he can. He is also optimistic that the forthcoming campaign will present him with an opportunity to go out on loan.

Duffy continued: “I was delighted - as you would be to play for your country. I had just switched from Northern Ireland to the Republic and it was just an honour to be called up. 

“My clearance hadn't come through allowing me to play in the proper games, but it was good just to go down there and try and impress the manager.

“My first target is to get fit. And then hopefully if the manager lets me go out on loan and get some experience - get a couple more games under my belt and just take it as it comes really.

“I have to play as much as I can and get some experience. If I can drop down to the lower leagues and get some experience, it will be good for me.

“I know I'm not ready to play in Everton's first team yet as I'm so young but if I'm needed I'll do my best for the team. A loan would obviously make me better, and make me more mature on the pitch. So hopefully we can do something about it when I get fit.”

Our two-part interview with Duffy is available to view on evertontv. To view, click here.