Declan left beaming but bad news for Bowen

Declan Rice has been left beaming after being given a call-up to England for the tournament in Qatar.

The Qatarstrophe looms large and the Three Lions announced their squad on Thursday at 2pm.

Declan has been included in the squad, which comes as absolutely no surprise given his recent form and his importance to Gareth Southgate’s side.

He was a key pillar of the side that reached the Euro 2020 final, playing brilliantly, even in the final against Italy.

And he will now be heading to his first major tournament involving the rest of the world, and has already set his sights on lifting the trophy and following in the footsteps of Bobby Moore.

Speaking to the club’s official website after his selection was officially announced, Declan could barely hide his excitement.

He said: “It’s crazy. It’s not really hit me yet, to be honest.

“I think I might be one of less than 500 Englishmen who have gone to a World Cup, and there’s so many people in this country want to be a footballer and I’m one of 26 players who has been selected to go, so it’s an honour and one that will now live with me forever.

“I’m looking forward to it. I’m obviously wishing all my teammates the best as well, but obviously want us to win it.”

Declan has thus far won 34 caps for England and has scored twice, and will be out to add to that when the group stage kicks off; England face Iran, USA and Wales in their group.

Jarrod Bowen who was called up recently has missed out after a lack lustre start to the Hammers season.