The FAI have begun an eligibility process around Chiedozie Ogbene, the Rotherham player who has expressed a desire to play for the Republic of Ireland.

The 23-year-old was born in Lagos, Nigeria, before moving to Cork with his family at the age of seven.

He played schoolboy football on Leeside with College Corinthians, Kilreen Celtic, Tramore Athletic and Everton before being signed by League of Ireland club Cork City in 2015.

A year later, he was a part of Cork's FAI Cup winning squad.

Ogbene then moved to Limerick in January 2017.

A transfer to England and Brentford followed before he spent a period on loan with Exeter City.

He then joined Rotherham last August, signing a three-year deal.

Ogbene was ever-present for the Yorkshire club in League One and they were promoted to the Championship as runners-up following a truncated season due to the coronavirus pandemic.

He has received praise for his pace on the flanks and ability from Millers' manager Paul Warne.

The player has told Republic of Ireland senior team manager Stephen Kenny of his desire to wear the green jersey, and the FAI are now following up on Ogbene's request by processing the relevant paperwork.

The national team will face Nations League games against Bulgaria and Finland in September.