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O'Neill checks on Cullen for NI

Tuesday 21 February 2012 12:06, UK

Image: Robert Cullen: Has received an approach from Michael O'Neill over NI call-up

Michael O'Neill has contacted VVV Venlo to see if Japan-born Robert Cullen is interested in playing for Northern Ireland.

Japan-born striker catches Northern Ireland manager's eye

Northern Ireland boss Michael O'Neill has contacted VVV Venlo to see if their Japan-born striker Robert Cullen is interested in playing for the national side. O'Neill has named his first squad since taking over from Nigel Worthington as national manager earlier this year, but is eager to continue expanding the available player pool. Cullen, 26, was born in Ibaraki, Japan, but his father is Northern Irish and O'Neill has made enquiries to gauge his interest in declaring for his side. Answering questions on a webchat hosted by the News Letter newspaper, O'Neill said: "An approach to his (Cullen's) club has been made for further information. "I intend to watch this player personally or have someone watch him in the near future. "In the short time I have been in the job, I have actively tried to deepen the player pool available for selection by trying to find players who are eligible for NI. "This will continue throughout my reign as it will allow our younger players time to develop and not be rushed into full international football."

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