Ireland boss Stephen Kenny has played down rumours about Patrick Bamford switching International allegiances.

The Leeds United striker was snubbed by England for the upcoming Euros after scoring 17 goals this season.

Bamford represented Ireland at U18 level, but Kenny doesn't expect him to join his side.

He said: "He was very close to being in contention, maybe, for England for the European Championship. It's not realistic to suggest that at the moment, I would feel.

"I think that was obviously his objective, to go to the European Championship with England.

"There's no doubt he's a very good player, a quality centre-forward, but we have to believe in the talent that we have. We have to work to improve it and get better.

"It's unusual for players to switch nationality – I'm not saying it never happens – so quickly after a situation of just being left out of a tournament. There are not many instances of that. Normally it's over a long period."