MICHAEL Obafemi has committed his international future to the Republic of Ireland.

Obafemi was on the bench during their goalless draw with rivals Northern Ireland last noght.

The 18-year-old could have played for England or Nigeria, but opted against it in order to play for the country of his birth.

He represented Ireland at youth level and a statement released by Playerworks CSM - on behalf of Saints’ youngster - confirmed his intentions.

“Michael was born in Ireland, so this is the country he naturally wants to play for.” the statement read.

“Martin O’Neill has shown great faith in Michael and he wants to repay that faith by helping the team achieve success.

“Michael is 100 percent committed to Ireland.”

Former Saints goalkeeper - and now first team coach - Kelvin Davis believes that O’Neill would be crazy not to hand the youngster his maiden international cap.

Davis said: “I have seen Michael coming through the ranks at Southampton and the first thing you notice about him is that he has real pace.

“He is a raw talent. In my opinion, Ireland would be mad not to try and get him in their squad on a full-time basis and if that means giving him at a cap in a friendly game to try and get him on board, they they should do it.”

Saints midfielder Steven Davis captained Northern Ireland in the 0-0 draw.

Davis’ side came close to scoring twice but failed to find the breakthrough.