Ireland To England? Declan Rice.

Declan Rice was left out of Republic of Irelands 26 man squad to face Wales and Poland for this months international break. Martin O'Neil (Republic of Ireland manager) claims that England have spoken to the 19 year old as he thinks through his International career.

Rice was born in London and came through the youth ranks at Chelsea and current club West Ham. He plays for the first team on a regular basis and has played for Irelands youth team from under 16s to u21 level. Superb performances for West Ham in the 2017/18 campaign earnt Rice a call-up to the Irish senior team. The London-born defender has represented the boys in green three times but now finds himself thinking about switching nationalities and representing his country of birth: England. According to the rules of FIFA, players can only switch countries if they haven't played in a competitive match for their current nation. A player is also only allowed to switch if he or she, their mother or father, grandmother or grandfather was born on the territory of the relevant association.

Martin O'Neil told the press that "he needs more time to think about it" (his decision). England boss Gareth Southgate says he has spoken to Declan Rice but has not promised anything regarding first team football.

Former Ireland player Kevin Kilbane blasted the youngster taking his statement to social media, tweeting out: 'I'd rather be ranked 150th in the world and never qualify again, than have someone who has played but needs more time to THINK whether they should play for us again. Well done to MON for transparency.' Current Irish international and Stoke City midfielder James McClean who is a teammate of Rice, replied to Kilbane's tweet saying 'Bang on lad.. representing your country should be an honour and a proud moment.'

Rice was born in England and plays for Ireland but now, has a big decision to make.