MARLON KING'S dream of playing international football could be fulfilled next month with a call-up to the Republic of Ireland Under-21 side.

Sources in Dublin have confirmed that the 21-year-old Gillingham striker is being considered by Under-21 team manager Don Givens for his international debut on October 5 against Cyprus at Dalymount Park.

The match could see King partner Crystal Palace's Clinton Morrison in a new-look attack.

Though born in Dulwich, south London, King qualifies for the Republic of Ireland through his mother, Joyce. He is also qualified to play for the England and Jamaica.

Last month Republic of Ireland manager Mick McCarthy confirmed he was aware of King's qualification and would be checking his form. Since then it is believed that a Republic of Ireland scout has watched the young striker.

The supremely confident King said: "I can only see myself playing for the Republic of Ireland and if the chance came I would take it with both hands.

"I watched them beat Holland on Saturday and was backing them 100 per cent. I regard myself as an Irishman."

An international call-up would climax a remarkable rise for King who came to Gillingham from Barnet last summer for a bargain £250,000.