England’s Under 17’s announced their squad a few days ago with William being named in it. England’s group is Malta, Slovakia and Sweden, with the winners playing in the finals this summer.
Ireland’s Under 17’s will have Michael in the squad. Ireland face Greece, Austria and Finland. The winners of the group will go to the finals in Liechtenstein.
If both teams qualify from the group stage then the twin brothers could line-up against each other in the finals of the competition.
The Ireland U17 manager Sean McCaffrey said: "It's great to have Michael on board with us. We knew for a long time that he was eligible but we didn't think he would declare and come to play for us.”
"It would be strange for brothers, especially twins, to play for different counties. Of course, we would love to have William on board with the Irish team as well but, for now, there is no chance of that. He has already played for England and he's made it clear that he wants to stick with the English team.”
Talking about the other brother William, McCaffrey said:
"I am very glad that we have Michael with us, and, from all reports I have seen and heard, William is a very special player.”
"But he has been in the England set-up for some time and he wants to play for England so there's not a lot we can do. Who knows what will happen down the road and in the future? But for now we will work with Michael. He's technically very good and he's getting a good education at United."
Both players joined United on the 1st July 2009. William is a striker and Michael is a defender.
