Record-breaking former Irish League youngster Chris Atherton has switched his international allegiance from Northern Ireland to the Republic of Ireland.

Atherton became the youngest player to feature in a senior men’s match in the United Kingdom when Gary Hamilton handed him his debut in a BetMcLean Cup triumph over Dollingstown aged 13 years and 329 days in September 2022.

The 17-year-old developed a reputation as one of the Irish League’s most exciting prospects after coming through the ranks at the Lurgan Blues and made 24 Premiership appearances last term, scoring a maiden goal against Loughgall.

Atherton sealed a dream summer move to Premier League giants Chelsea and has featured for the club’s U18s this season.

placeholder image — Northern Ireland U17 international Chris Atherton has switched international allegiance. (Photo by Pacemaker)

He signed his first professional contract at Stamford Bridge in October having initially joined on a scholarship.

FIFA’s Change of Association platform lists the Republic of Ireland as Atherton’s new country, confirming a switch from Northern Ireland, who he represented up to U17 level, with a ‘decision date’ listed as 25/12/2026.

Atherton’s last appearance for Northern Ireland’s U17s came in March’s European Championship qualifying defeat to England.

A number of players have made the international switch in both directions – Mark Sykes represented Northern Ireland at underage level before opting to play for the Republic of Ireland while Ronan Hale switched back to Northern Ireland last year and has starred for Michael O’Neill’s side.

Atherton was Northern Ireland’s youth ambassador at the announcement of the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland co-hosting the 2028 European Championships - he was 14 at the time – and said “to play in it would just be something you dream of”.

Former Glenavon manager Paddy McLaughlin hailed Atherton as “one of the brightest prospects” across recent years in the Irish League with a host of players and coaches predicting a bright future.

Atherton’s former team-mate David McDaid said in 2024: “It is scary how good he is...I don't say that lightly about many kids, but I haven't seen anyone like him, to be honest. Whoever gets him will be very lucky because he is a scary talent at a young age."