Bolton captain Kevin Nolan is refusing to rule out the prospect of one day playing for the Republic of Ireland.

Nolan was talked about as an England prospect prior to the World Cup in Germany after an exemplary season in Wanderers' midfield.

The 24-year-old scored 11 goals last term for Bolton, but with Steven Gerrard, Frank Lampard, Owen Hargreaves and Michael Carrick ahead of him, Nolan faces a tough challenge to break into the England squad.

It is why he has already held talks with Republic of Ireland manager Steve Staunton about pulling on a green jersey.

Nolan, who is eligible for Ireland through the grandparents ruling, concedes he is willing to sit down with Staunton again to discuss the matter further.

"I have spoken to Steve Staunton a couple of times," confirmed Nolan.

"He has been to watch some of our matches, although he was obviously watching Joey O'Brien as well.

"But it's something we've chatted about, and something we will have to discuss more in depth, but it's probably a long way off."

Nolan's first choice would understandably be to play for England, yet even though his name was continually linked at the back end of last season, there were no regrets about missing out on the World Cup.

"I can honestly say I did not once wish I was there," insisted Nolan.

"I had a brilliant summer with my missus and a few of the lads, so it never entered my mind.

"I just enjoyed watching the World Cup. It's something you have to enjoy. It was a fantastic occasion."

With Sven-Goran Eriksson now gone, and new manager Steve McClaren taking up the reins on August 1, a fresh outlook may give Nolan an opportunity.

But until it happens, it is not a matter that concerns him, adding: "It (a call-up) has not happened yet, so it's not an issue.

"Until it does happen, if it happens, then it will be something to think about and look forward to."