By Eurohoops team/ info@eurohoops.net
Irish national team head coach Mark Keenan revealed that their Federation called Fenerbahce Beko forward Metecan Birsen and London Lions big man Conor Morgan to join the squad for the 2027 World Cup Qualifiers.
“I know [Birsen] has recently been part of their international set-up. It was a long shot to reach out. I spoke to Conor Morgan as well but he is still firmly involved with the Canadian national team,” Keenan said per BallInEurope.
Birsen holds an Irish passport via his mother. He has been playing with the Turkey youth squads since he was 15 years old and has participated in several tournaments with the senior national team, including the 2019 World Cup.
There is a scenario in which Birsen could, theoretically, play for Ireland as a native: If he received his Irish passport before he became 16 years old. Otherwise, he’s considered a naturalized player.
Morgan could join Ireland only as a naturalized player. He’s represented Canada in multiple competitions.