CHRIS McCann's international future could be in tatters after the Clarets midfielder was sent home from the Republic of Ireland Under 21 squad just hours before their match with Bulgaria.

The 20-year-old was blasted by Ireland U21 boss Don Givens after McCann said he did not want to take his place on the bench for Tuesday night's European Championship qualifier in Athlone.

Givens was hugely critical of McCann after the game - in which the Republic won 1-0 - insisting other young players would give their right arm' to play in Ireland's green and white.

McCann was unavailable for comment yesterday. But his actions could have serious ramifications on the international scene, with Givens hinting that McCann may not again be picked while he remains in charge.

"Will I pick him again? Would you?" said the Irish boss.

McCann had been called up to the Ireland U21 squad for the first time this month after impressing for the Clarets this season.

But he failed to play any part in Montenegro on Friday evening and voiced his discontent when named on the bench for Tuesday's game against Bulgaria.

"The background was that Chris McCann came to me at 5.15pm and said he didn't want to be in the squad tonight. It was a waste of time him being here,' explained Givens.

"He travelled to Montenegro and did not take part. He wasn't in the starting line-up tonight and he didn't want to be in the squad. I said to him have a think about it because it is obviously going to affect your future'.

"He said that he didn't want to be in so I said to pack his things and go."

Givens added: "I regret now that he hadn't told me earlier because I'd have got somebody else on the bench. I'd have got a local boy in.

"I could have got somebody in because half this town would give their right arm to play for their country. Here's a kid who doesn't want to be there.

"I can never understand anybody that doesn't want to pull on the green shirt.

"I don't know the boy very well. He trained fine. There was no problem with his training in Dublin or here. As soon as the team was announced I wish he'd come to me then."