International allegiance can become one of the most personal decisions a footballer makes, and Manchester United have seen plenty of players pulled between different nations.
Declan Rice famously represented Republic of Ireland three times at senior level before committing to England, while Jack Grealish also wore Irish colours throughout his younger years before choosing the Three Lions.
United currently have an international question of their own surrounding Leny Yoro.
Reports previously suggested the defender could commit his senior future to Ivory Coast, despite spending his international career in the French system.
For now, France remain firmly in the picture.
Yoro has been selected by their Under-21s for September’s European Championship qualifiers, continuing a relationship which began when he represented the country at Under-17 level.
Now another United midfielder finds himself at the centre of an international battle, with two nations attempting to convince him that his future belongs with them.
Two nations battle for Manchester United midfielder
According to the Daily Mail, Jay McEvoy is wanted by both Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland, having represented both countries at younger age groups.
The 17-year-old has been with United since Under-9 level, meaning coaches at Carrington have watched almost his entire footballing development.
That patience is beginning to produce results.
Jay McEvoy has stood out in midfield recently and has been brought into first-team training, an important step as United attempt to show him there is a genuine route towards senior football.
His performances have also convinced United to offer him a professional contract.
The international decision is becoming similarly significant. The Daily Mail reports that both the Irish FA and Football Association of Ireland have presented their cases to McEvoy and his family.
Northern Ireland manager Michael O’Neill is also reportedly preparing to meet them in the coming weeks as he attempts to persuade McEvoy to commit to his country.
McEvoy has started the season strongly for United, scoring three times and providing an assist across five appearances.
Those numbers help explain the attention.
However, his growing responsibility within United’s midfield is the bigger story.
Club and country are now both trying to convince McEvoy that they can provide the right pathway for his development.