Declan Rice to choose England over Ireland, reports

West Ham United midfielder made his decision after meeting with Gareth Southgate

Declan Rice is set to commit his international future to England, according to reports. Photograph: Mike Hewitt/Getty
Declan Rice is set to commit his international future to England, according to reports. Photograph: Mike Hewitt/Getty

Declan Rice is to commit his international future to England ahead of the Republic of Ireland, according to reports.

The Daily Star (UK) have reported manager Gareth Southgate met Rice at St George's Park - the FA's national football centre - earlier this month, presenting him with statistical data on how the midfielder could fit into the England set-up.

19-year-old Rice has become a regular starter for West Ham since making his breakthrough under David Moyes in the 2017-18 season.

London-born Rice represented Ireland at youth level from Under-16s onwards, and made three senior appearances after his debut against Turkey in March.

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However, Rice decided not to feature in the Ireland squads for the recent Uefa Nations League clashes against Denmark and Wales and the friendly against Poland.

And because he is yet to be to capped in a competitive fixture Rice remains eligible to represent England - and his decision to do so will be a big blow for Ireland boss Martin O’Neill.