A former soccer winger who won 27 caps for Northern Ireland is swapping

his football jersey for a soutane in the seminary.

Student for Diocese of Down & Connor

Philip Mulryne (31) (pictured above in the  NI international kit) played for

Manchester United during the 1990's and but is now about to join a seminary

after been invited by the Bishop of Down and Connor to begin studies for the priesthood.

His mother Sally confirmed this week that her son made the ‘big decision' to join

the priesthood and will begin training at the end of August.

Philip made his debut for Manchester United in 1995 after coming through the youth team.

In 1999 he transferred to Norwich city but his time there was plagued by injuries.

He later played for Cardiff City, Norwich city, Leyton Orient and King's Lynn.

He is understood to be attending a retreat at the moment and was unavailable for

comment about his decision to join the clergy. Philip Mulryne will be forever remembered

in Northern Ireland hearts as the hero for Northern Ireland in 2001 after his strike

secured a 1-1 draw away to Denmark in a world cup qualifier and ended their six-match losing run.

(CI News)