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Last updated: 20/03/19 07:34
1:18
Declan Rice said that it was difficult to choose to play for England rather than for the Republic of Ireland
Declan Rice said that it was difficult to choose to play for England rather than for the Republic of Ireland
West Ham midfielder, Declan Rice, said he "gave off pride" after being called into the English team.
But the 20-year-old admitted that taking England at the expense of the Republic of Ireland was not an easy decision to make.
Rice was named to Gareth Southgate's squad for the upcoming European qualifiers after obtaining FIFA's permission to change the Republic of Ireland's international allegiance.
He had appeared in the youth teams of the Republic of Ireland and had also won three senior selections, but they were all in friendly matches, which meant that he was allowed to make the change.
Rice has been in great shape for West Ham this season
In an interview with the Football Association, Rice said: "It was a very difficult decision, I think everyone knows my situation with the Republic of Ireland.
"I played there in youth training, but I had to make the decision that suited me best.
"As you can hear, I'm English, I'm from England and it was really good to play for Ireland.
"Now, I'm really looking forward to the future and putting on England's jersey, I just have to look forward and forget about the past."
Rice's impressive form with West Ham allowed her to win quickly on Southgate's plans.
England celebrates victory over Croatia in the League of Nations
About her call, Rice said, "You can not describe it, I simply could not believe it.
"I was sick the day the training was announced last week." My dad came home and we were watching TV, it appeared that I was in the team.
"I was overflowing with pride. That's all you wanted to work for, and it's come true.
"The call is one of the best feelings you can feel."
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