Premier League footballer Declan Rice has confirmed his decision to play international football for England, after representing Ireland three times.
The 20-year-old West Ham midfielder announced the decision on Twitter this afternoon.
He played three senior international matched for Ireland – and represented the country at underage level.
— Declan Rice (@_DeclanRice) February 13, 2019
Rice’s star has been rising in recent months – with a string of top class performances in the Premier League.
“This has been an extremely difficult decision and, in all honesty, not one I ever expected to be making at this stage of my career,” he said.
“Like so many people around the world, I consider myself to be of mixed nationality.
“I am a proud Englishman, having been born and raised in London. However, I am just as proud of my family’s Irish heritage and my affinity and connection with the country.
“I have equal respect and love for both England and Ireland and therefore the national team I choose to represent is not a clear-cut, simple selection. Particularly not for a young lad who never dreamed of being in this position.
“Ultimately it is a personal decision that I have made with my heart and my head based on what I believe is best for my future.”
"They're not being thrown into a boot and having an Ireland shirt put on them."
We are discussing English-born Irish players, after Declan #Rice declares for England#DeclanRicehttps://t.co/2cjfTTRec0— Off The Ball (@offtheball) February 13, 2019
He said he ‘fully accepts’ that many Irish fans will be disappointed, adding “I hope that people can understand that I made this decision with honesty, integrity and the full support of my family.”
“My pride at wearing the Irish shirt was always 100% genuine,” he said.
“It was a great honour for myself and for my family and [it is] something I will always cherish.”
Ireland manager Mick McCarthy said: "Declan rang me today and said he has decided to give it a go with England. Good luck to him."
