The Irish in Britain, including those of Irish descent, make up a significant part of the UK population. Here, you will find news, entertainment, events, sports and features from the local Irish Post newspaper.

Bolton midfielder Kevin Nolan will not be part of new Irish manager Steve Staunton’s plans. The Liverpool-born player with Dublin parents would undoubtedly have been a target for Staunton had he been eligible by virtue of a 12-month amnesty but Nolan failed to notify FIFA about switching allegiance before his 21st birthday in June 2004.

Although Nolan qualifies for Ireland through his parents he has already played for England at U-18, U-20 and U-21 level having rejected an approach from Brian Kerr as a teenager.

Since 2004 FIFA have changed the rules and offered an opportunity for players for one change of mind. When FIFA changed the eligibility rules it gave players the opportunity to switch their international allegiance before their 21st birthday. Since then a 12-month amnesty was given to all players over 21. The Republic of Ireland used this particular option to secure the services of former England youth international Jonathon Macken but Nolan has decided to remain an English player despite the fact that England has an abundance of midfield players.

Sunderland midfielder Liam Lawrence who already has an Irish passport may now come into the reckoning now that Nolan is no longer an option. Having scored against Chelsea on Sunday, Lawrence’s progress is likely to be monitored closely by Bobby Robson in the coming weeks.