Dundee United coach Darren Jackson has revealed that he had a word in Michael O’Neill’s ear about Paul Paton.
The Paisley-born midfielder, who qualifies under the parental eligibility rule as his father is from Northern Ireland, has been called up for the province’s friendly in Cyprus on Wednesday.
Jackson, who was a player at United alongside both Northern Irish manager O’Neill and his assistant Billy McKinlay, had a part to play in what could be a dramatic debut in Nicosia for the Tannadice man.
“I knew Michael and Badger (McKinlay) had been watching him so when I heard he had been called up it wasn’t totally unexpected,” said Jackson.
“I spoke to them when we first found out that Paul’s dad was from Northern Ireland and we took it from there.
“We kept them in touch with how Paul was doing and they have been to watch him as well.
“I think they were maybe looking further ahead to the summer when they are playing Chile and Uruguay but they have decided to call him up earlier than that.
“It was their decision and they have decided that he will enhance their squad.
“We are all delighted for Paul. He knew he could play at this level with United and has done so no problem. And whether he gets a start or comes on in Cyprus, it will be another step up for him.
“As a result, we only have two men and a dog in at training but that’s because we have a few away on international duty so that’s a good thing for United.
“It is great that we have boys getting recognised by their countries.”