Mikey Johnston details 'incredible' Ireland pull as Celtic winger looks to 'fulfil his potential' after declaration

Republic of Ireland manager Stephen Kenny wants to tap into Mikey Johnston's potential after he declared his international allegiance.

Through his grandfather in Derry, Johnston has decided he will play for Kenny's men instead of Scotland, who he represented a youth level. The winger is now available for selection for the Republic of Ireland ahead of the March international fixtures against Latvia and France. Johnston is on loan in Portugal from Celtic with Vitoria presently, where he has made 20 appearances in all competitions, scoring three goals and providing three assists.

Kenny is excited to work with him on getting the best out of his talents: "Mikey is an exciting player, a great individual talent and we're delighted to see him declare for the Republic of Ireland. I'm looking forward to seeing him play at the Aviva Stadium, dribbling in the way that he can and we look forward to helping him fulfil his potential in an Ireland shirt."

Johnston added: "Myself and my family have always been proud of our Irish roots with my grandad hailing from Derry. To potentially now play for Ireland is something that really excites me.

"It's up to me now to impress the manager and to get selected to the squad. But my focus now is to break into that squad and to make an impact for the team in a big year for the team.

"I've always watched the Ireland matches and the atmosphere always looks incredible. I can't wait to play at the Aviva Stadium and hopefully create some great moments for the team."

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