Roy Keane praised Mark Sykes for making a "brave" decision about his international future.
Sykes became the first Belfast man to play for the Republic of Ireland since the 1940s when he came on in the friendly against Malta last November.
The former Glenavon man had played at various youth levels for Northern Ireland but made the decision to switch allegiances to Ireland at senior level.
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Speaking on ITV ahead of Bristol City's FA Cup tie against Manchester City on Tuesday night former Ireland captain Keane commended Sykes on his decision and said he was looking forward to seeing him playing against the Premier League champions..
"Sykes is obviously a good player, it was a good move for him in the summer," said Keane.
"He's a a talented boy, can play in a number of positions, he has even played at wingback.
"It's a good opportunity for him tonight, these lads have worked hard throughout their careers.
"He has been down in the lower leagues, got a move from Oxford United in League One. It's a nice test for him.
"He made a big decision a few months ago in declaring that he wanted to play for Ireland after coming through playing underage with Northern Ireland. He's obviously a a brave boy, he made a brave decision there.
"It's great to see these players live, we don't ordinarily do when they're in the Championship. It'll be nice to see what sort of player he is."
Manchester City saw off plucky Bristol City to reach the quarter-finals of the FA Cup with a 3-0 victory at Ashton Gate.
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