Les Ferdinand: An Irishman Abroad

Les Ferdinand, the former English striker, has spoken of his pride in his Irish heritage, despite never having played for the Republic of Ireland at international level.

Ferdinand, who was born in London to an Irish father and an English mother, has always identified strongly with his Irish roots. He has often spoken of his love of Irish music and culture, and he has even been known to sing a few bars of 'The Fields of Athenry' at karaoke nights.

Despite his strong Irish connections, Ferdinand never played for the Republic of Ireland at international level. He was capped once by England in 1993, but he never made another appearance for the Three Lions.

Ferdinand has said that he would have loved to have played for Ireland, but he understands why he was never selected. He was a good player, but he was never one of the best players in England. And with so many great players to choose from, the Republic of Ireland manager always had other options.

But even though he never played for Ireland, Ferdinand is still proud of his Irish heritage. He is a regular visitor to Ireland, and he often speaks of his love for the country and its people.

In an interview with the Irish Independent, Ferdinand said: "I'm very proud of my Irish heritage. I love Ireland and its people. I've always felt a strong connection to the country, even though I've never lived there.

Ferdinand's story is a reminder that you don't have to be born in a country to feel a connection to it. Love of country is something that is felt in the heart, and it can be just as strong for those who have never lived there as for those who have.

Ferdinand's story is also a reminder that you don't have to be the best at something to be proud of it. He may never have played for Ireland at international level, but he is still proud of his Irish heritage. And that's something that no one can ever take away from him.