“I think they’re really big decisions as when you’re asking a player to transfer associations, they’ve got to feel they have a future with you. That said, there was never any guarantees made to him as I think that was also important, as you’ve got to be playing well to get in the squad.
“But his form his has been excellent and we like what we’ve seen in terms of his personality, his character and leadership qualities.
“He can play as a holding midfield player and I’ve seen him play very well as a centre-back so I think he will fit in very well with the way that we work and I’m looking forward to welcoming him with us next week.”
Should Rice feature against either Czech Republic at Wembley on Friday 22 March or Montenegro in Podgorica on Monday 25 March, he will become the 42nd senior England international in the Club’s history.