Aston Villa starlet Shane Lowry has pledged his international allegiance to Australia despite having represented the Republic of Ireland at under-19 and under-21 level.

Lowry, who was born in Perth to Irish parents, advised the Football Assocation of Ireland of his decision to turn his back on his adopted nation this week.

The move, which echoes the decision made by Middlesbrough's Rhys Williams earlier this year, paves the way for 20-year-old Lowry to represent the Socceroos at next year's World Cup finals in South Africa.

"The decision is entirely up to the player," said an FAI spokesman. "He is eligible for both countries and it's perfectly within the rules."

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