Blackpool forward CJ Hamilton seems set to declare for the Republic of Ireland - with an impending call-up coming in the next few weeks.
The 27-year-old has impressed in the Championship this campaign, with Blackpool sitting in mid-table following their promotion via the EFL League One play-offs a season prior.
He qualifies for Ireland through his mother. CJ is London-born but lived in Clonea, playing hurling with the club of the same name - as well as lining out for Carrick United and Portlaw United before heading back across the sea.
Hamilton went from Carrick United to join the youth set-up at Sheffield United, before embarking upon loan spells with non-league sides Halifax and Gateshead. Following this, CJ had a successful four-year spell with Mansfield Town, scoring 15 goals in 142 games.
He made the move to Blackpool in July 2020 - and has 1 goal and 3 assists in 21 appearances this season. He got the opening goal in a pre-season friendly against Liverpool at Anfield in 2020, but the Reds did recover to score seven.
Ireland boss Stephen Kenny says he's delighted to have 'super keen' Hamilton among his options for upcoming Nations League fixtures - as well as the Boys in Green's Euro 2024 qualification campaign.
"A player has come to our attention and has declared for Ireland and his paperwork is done. It was one that we weren’t monitoring until he came to our attention, we had no idea really. It’s CJ Hamilton who’s a left winger for Blackpool. Someone mentioned to us that he was available and we spoke to him. CJ is super keen and wants to do it. He’s playing at Championship level regularly and is very quick. CJ qualifies through an Irish mother. He played for Carrick United growing up. He grew up in Waterford. I’ve not seen loads of him, I’ve just watched his games so forth. He was not on my radar as such. He’s on the radar now and we’ve done his paperwork, it’s nearly completed. Someone mentioned to us that he was available and we spoke to him. CJ is super keen and wants to do it. It’s straightforward — he hasn’t played for England or anyone else.’
For all the latest Waterford sport, click here.
