Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall
Everton midfielder Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall has publicly dismissed claims that he intends to switch his international allegiance from England to Ireland. The speculation arose from a tweet by an account claiming to be an Irish freelance journalist, which stated that Dewsbury-Hall had informed Ireland manager Heimir Hallgrimsson of his desire to join the Irish national team after being omitted from England’s World Cup squad.
Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall said: “?? Just not true. Massive respect to Ireland as I’ve previously stated, but I’m English and England is always the dream.”
Dewsbury-Hall, who transferred to Everton from Chelsea for £25 million last August, has been a standout performer for David Moyes’ team during their inaugural season at Hill Dickinson Stadium. Despite suffering a hamstring injury during a return to Stamford Bridge in December, he managed to make 31 appearances and score eight goals, marking a personal best in the Premier League. However, he was not called up by England manager Thomas Tuchel, either during the season or for the upcoming World Cup finals.
The Irish Football Association has reportedly been interested in securing Dewsbury-Hall’s services for some time, given his eligibility through his grandparents. Despite being born in Nottingham and growing up in Leicestershire, the midfielder has consistently expressed his commitment to England.
Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall said: “It’s a hard one to answer, I respect Ireland and I respect the Irish people but I’m English. To play for England, for me, would be the biggest achievement of my career. I think it would be wrong of me to keep letting things drag on when I’ve got a clear goal in my head… That’s nothing against Ireland or anything, they’re unbelievable people. But it would be the proudest moment of my life if I played for England.”
Dewsbury-Hall acknowledged the challenge of breaking into Thomas Tuchel’s plans but remains optimistic about achieving his dream, emphasizing that it is within his control.
Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall said: “I have always had to work, work, work, work. That’s instilled in me, I know I’m not going to get anything given to me, I have to earn it. I almost like the fact that it’s up to me. If I play well enough then I’ll do it, but if I don’t then I’m content because it’s my fault, it’s no-one else’s. [My mindset] is probably just from the fact that I’ve always had to work for everything. Whatever I’ve had I feel like I’ve earned. Nothing is given to me, which I’m quite proud of. Again, if I ever play for England it’s because I’ve earned it and I’ve worked hard and I’ve played well enough where I get the opportunity.”
Dewsbury-Hall’s dedication and focus on earning his place through hard work reflect his determination to achieve his goal of representing England on the international stage.
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