Ex-Chelsea star switches international allegiance from England and could feature at World Cup

Former Chelsea midfielder Harvey Vale has switched his international allegiance from England to the Republic of Ireland – and could now play at the World Cup.

The 22-year-old came through Chelsea‘s academy before leaving the Blues permanently last summer to join QPR.

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As an England youth international, Vale had represented his country from Under-15 to U20 level.

Across that time, he made 31 appearances and a path to the senior side looked to be possible.

But having failed to make his mark at Chelsea – featuring in just seven matches across all competitions – his chances of an England call-up dwindled.

And now, he could be at the World Cup after FIFA ratified his switch – just days after Carney Chukwuemeka’s switch to Austria from England was confirmed.

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The Republic of Ireland have a semi-final play-off against Czech Republic in Prague upcoming on March 26.

And if they do win that, there is one final play-off match to play.

They’d face either Denmark or North Macedonia in a 90-minute shootout on March 31 with a place at the World Cup up for grabs.

Heimir Hallgrimsson’s men produced a stunning end to their group stage campaign which ensured that the Republic of Ireland got a place in the play-offs.

After back-to-back wins over Armenia and Portugal, they went to Budapest knowing they had to beat Hungary.

Troy Parrott scored a hat-trick – completing his treble following a last-gasp winner.

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Vale’s chance

Before his move to Loftus Road last summer, Vale had only played regular first-team football for Bristol Rovers having featured sparingly for Chelsea, while also playing just three times on loan at Hull in the 2022/23 season.

But he has become an important player for the Championship side.

Vale has appeared in 23 matches in England’s second-tier this term.

He has chipped in with three goals and as many assists – scoring and assisting in Saturday’s 3-1 win away at Leicester.

Capable of playing anywhere in midfield, Vale can also do a job as a left full-back – giving Ireland options should they decide to call him up.,

Regardless as to whether Ireland make it to the World Cup or not, boss Hallgrimsson has confirmed he will remain in charge of the national team.

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In an interview with the Irish Times, he said: “I’ll be here at least until after the World Cup.

“The players know we believe in them.

“The FAI are investing in going to the US. That’s how it should be.”