N Ireland manager Ian Baraclough reportedly monitoring international future of Rangers teen

Northern Ireland boss Ian Baraclough is reportedly monitoring Charlie McCann's international future in the hope the Rangers teenager may opt to switch allegiance from the Republic.

McCann, who made his Light Blues debut in last month’s 3-0 Scottish Cup win over Annan Athletic, has represented the Republic of Ireland at underage level.

But the former Manchester United U23 midfielder, who hails from Coventry, is thought to have sneaked onto the radar of Baraclough who is considering adding more young blood to his squad.

According to the Daily Record, the Northern Ireland manager and his assistant Jimmy Nicholl watched McCann star for Rangers B in a 2-0 win over Broomhill on Friday night.

And the report suggests Baraclough may be “tempted” to add the gifted playmaker to his future plans if McCann gives any indication he is ready to enlist with the Green and White Army.

The 19-year-old, who scored 17 goals in 62 games across Manchester United’s U23 and U18 teams, represented England at U16 level before declaring for the Republic.

McCann, who counts Anthony Elanga and Ethan Galbraith as former U23 teammates at Old Trafford, joined Rangers last season and is said to be highly-rated at Ibrox.

Rangers B teammates Kyle McClelland and Ross McCausland, who have represented Northern Ireland at underage level, also came under Baraclough’s watchful eye at the weekend.

Meanwhile, according to the Daily Record, Baraclough and Nicholl also took in Kilmarnock’s 0-0 draw with Dunfermline on Saturday with Kyle Lafferty starting up front for Kille.

The 34-year-old, who was overlooked for November’s double header with Italy and Lithuania, has scored five goals in seven games since rejoining the Scottish Championship club for a second spell