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Ex-Scotland player blasts McCarthy and McGeady for choosing to represent Ireland

Former Scotland defender Gordon McQueen has lambasted James McCarthy and Aiden McGeady for their ...



Ex-Scotland player blasts McCa...
Soccer

Ex-Scotland player blasts McCarthy and McGeady for choosing to represent Ireland

Former Scotland defender Gordon McQueen has lambasted James McCarthy and Aiden McGeady for their decision to play for Ireland.

In an interview with the Telegraph, McQueen, who made 30 appearance for Scotland in the 70s and early 80s, sharply criticised both Glasgow-born players, who declared for Ireland through the 'grandmother rule.'

"I hate that: I’ve got no time for these players," he said. "You’re born in Glasgow but then you go and play for somebody else? What’s that all about? I’m not having that at all.

"You’re either Scottish or you’re not Scottish and you should know that by the time you’re 12 years of age.

McQueen is confident that the atmosphere in Celtic Park will help carry Scotland to a victory that would put them on seven points, level with Ireland. He believes that the ground will prove especially intimidating for the Everton pair on Friday.

 "Will it be hard for them coming back here with Ireland? I really hope so. I hope they get a horrible reception because they deserve it. I’m sure somebody must have asked them to play or Scotland at some stage."

Ireland's football team has long benefited from its diaspora, which has provided some of our best players through the 'grandmother rule.' Past players who availed of it include Ray Houghton, Jason McAteer and John Aldridge. The last time Ireland played will an all Irish-born team was in 1975.

 

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