Jim Crawford admits there may be a sceptical reaction to Nathan Fraser’s reason for snubbing an Ireland U21 call-up, suggesting pressure from Wolves may have influenced his decision.
The latest English-born Premier League star represented Ireland at U19 level – through his Cork grandparent – but has made himself unavailable for an U21 debut against San Marino in Friday week’s Euro qualifier.
The excuse provided to the U21 boss, that he’s “a bit apprehensive about being injured” as the only fit Wolves striker for the FA Cup tie against Coventry and league derby against Aston Villa next month, will raise fears of him holding out for an England approach.
Tom Cannon fell into that category shortly after breaking into the Everton team last year but Crawford isn’t fearing Fraser jumping ship.
“He was sincere and I can only take him at face value,” said the Ireland chief about his conversation with the 19-year-old.
“There’s nothing more I can do. I’m not going to get aggressive with him or challenge him.
“I won’t beat around the bush. I’d imagine 95% of clubs will not want their players going on international duty because historically, some have picked up injuries during camps, either in training or games.
“If you’ve got a big derby coming up and you’re struggling for strikers, most managers would say they’d like to keep you here in the building. That’s so they can monitor and dictate your training because he’ll be their No 1 striker for the next few weeks.
“I’d imagine if you’ve got a head coach saying it to someone as young as Nathan, he’d say ‘okay, I’ll stay here’.
“Wolves are his employers but to say he wants to be considered in future is a silver lining for us.”
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