Dundee keeps options open

SOUTH AFRICAN born striker Sean Dundee, who has recently sprung to prominence with German Bundesliga side Karlsruhe and who may…

SOUTH AFRICAN born striker Sean Dundee, who has recently sprung to prominence with German Bundesliga side Karlsruhe and who may qualify to play for Ireland and Scotland, says that he will decide on which of his international options to pursue at the end of this season.

The 23 year old, who has scored nine goals in 10 appearances for the German team since breaking into the side in October, has already turned down the opportunity to represent his native country. He says that his current preference is to play for the German national team, should the opportunity arise.

Dundee, who has an Irish great great grandfather, feels he is eligible to link up with Mick McCarthy's side. However, he is hoping that an initial contact from the German FA is followed up.

"I think moves have already started to make me a German," said the player last night, who moved to Germany over three years ago, but only turned professional after another import, Croatian international Slavan Bilic, departed Karlsruhe for West Ham. "My future is now in the hands of German trainer Bertie Vogts."

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Neither the Irish or Scottish football authorities have approached the player to date. Until recently, he would have welcomed a call from the FAI. His performances in recent months have prompted the Germans to take up the running.

"It could still be a possibility that I would play for Ireland, but now I am going to wait and see how the rest of the season goes for me before I make any decision on what to do," he said.

Emmet Malone

Emmet Malone

Emmet Malone is Work Correspondent at The Irish Times