BLE officials are confident that James McIlroy's shock decision to pursue an international career with Britain will not reverse the recent trend of northern athletes choosing to run for Ireland.

McIlroy, now resident in London, notified BLE of his decision to switch allegiance at the weekend. It is expected that his registration as a British athlete will be validated early in the New Year.

The Larne athlete was undeniably the most talented of the batch of athletes from Northern Ireland who indicated their intention of competing for Ireland. However, BLE don't expect others who made the transition to follow suit.

"It is, of course, disappointing to lose an athlete of McIlroy's quality, particularly after helping to nurture and develop his talent, but we wish him the best of luck in his future career," a spokesman said.

McIlroy has recently joined Kim McDonald's group of athletes in London. He withdrew from Ireland's World Championship squad in Seville after complaining of illness.