O'Brien commits to Scotland

O'Brien: Committed to Scotland

Motherwell's Jim O'Brien has switched his international allegiance back to Scotland as he hopes to work with Craig Levein once more.

The 22-year-old winger played for Scotland Under-17s before representing the Republic of Ireland at Under-19 and Under-21 level.

But the Vale of Leven-born player has now opted to make himself available for new Scotland boss Levein, whom he played under while on loan at Dundee United two years ago.

Explaining his international U-turn, O'Brien told the Scottish Sun: "It's something I looked into and had a long think about.

Decided

"I have decided to make myself available for selection for Scotland in future.

"A chance came up to play for Ireland and I wanted to do that for my grandfather.

"But your situation changes and with Craig getting the job, I wanted to work with him again."

O'Brien, who is out of contract at Fir Park this summer and has been linked with a move to Aberdeen, added: "I grew up watching Craig Brown take Scotland to the World Cup finals and if the chance comes along to win Scotland caps it would be great."