The FAI have confirmed they have started the eligibility process for Cork's Chiedozie Ogbene.
The former Cork City attacker has expressed his desire to represent the Republic of Ireland to national team boss Stephen Kenny.
Ogbene was born in Nigeria but moved to Cork aged 7, playing football for Tramore Athletic, College Corinthians, Kilreen Celtic and Everton before signing for Cork City in 2015.
The 23 year old won an FAI Cup medal in 2016 with City before moving to Limerick, and signed for English side Brentford in 2018.
Last year Ogbene signed for League one side Rotherham United, helping the side to the Championship after the season was cut short.
