Former Republic of Ireland manager Mick McCarthy says that Declan Rice’s decision to represent England ‘went down like a lead balloon’ when he told the manager of his decision.
Speaking on the Sky Football Show, McCarthy said: ‘[Declan Rice] How it went down? Like a lead balloon. He played three games, scored and kissed the jersey.
‘Players have a choice who they play for. If you’ve played a friendly, a full international, should that put you down as a certain country’s player, English, Irish, Scottish, whatever? I think it should.
‘He had his choice, I went to see him and his Dad. I didn’t think he would come with us, he was erring on the side of playing with England. I was curt with him on the phone, I had to ring back and wish him well, a good career for England and West Ham. I was so disappointed we lost such a good player.
Rice was born in Kington Upon Thames in Surrey but of Irish ancestry, since his switch, he has made seven senior appearances for England.
No comment on kissing the Badge ; we’ve had enough of that from other players that are best forgotten . And he wasn’t even connected in any way shape or form with you’re lot .
Omg ; still harping on about Rice . Once a paddy always a paddy . Declan had a massive decision to make ; born in ENGLAND and play for ENGLAND or play for a country he wasn’t born in . Grow up McCarthy , you’re half the reason he chose ENGLAND . Grow some talent of your own ffs .