Mark Sykes reveals Republic of Ireland dream

The Oxford United midfielder, who previously worked with Baraclough at under 21s level before the manager’s promotion to replace Michael O’Neill in June, made a phone call to highlight his desire to declare for the Republic of Ireland.

The Sykes decision proved a major talking point as Baraclough announced his first senior squad for September’s Nations League dates against Romania and Norway.

Baraclough spoke of his disappointment but also a desire to respect the player’s wish. Sykes has now provided his viewpoint on the controversial decision.

“It was a really difficult decision,” Sykes told the official Oxford United club website. “I genuinely wish Northern Ireland all the best and know they will do well under their new manager, who I have worked with before and really like.

“The last few weeks have given me time to think about things and I have to do what my heart says.

“The Republic of Ireland are the team I have always dreamed of playing for and I have to try my best to achieve that.

“I am proud to have been involved with the Northern Ireland team, and have always given it my all, but I had to make a choice and it had to be now.”

Sykes’ former Irish League colleague and current Oxford team-mate Joel Cooper was handed a first senior call-up by Baraclough.

Oxford head coach Karl Robinson spoke on the club website about both players.

“It’s great for Joel and he has really impressed us so far,” said Robinson. “I spoke with Mark and know how tough his decision was.

“He has not taken it lightly and he has been agonising over what to do but ultimately he needed to make a choice and as a club we respect his decision.

“He is still a young man, he has a great future ahead of him and he has been very honest over this so all we can do is back him and help him continue to progress as a player.”

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