Soccer player Declan Rice has said that his recent decision to declare for the England national team is decision that was made with his heart and his head.
Rice who earned three international caps for the Republic of Ireland announced on Wednesday that he will now line up for the three lions if the opportunity should arise.
In a statement explaining his decision, Rice said: “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.”
“So much has happened, so quickly, in the past couple of years, from progressing through the West ham Academy to making my Premier League debut at the age of 18 in 2017 and then being named in the full international squad just two days later.”
“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.”
“I fully accept that some Irish supporters will be disappointed by my decision, and that everyone has different opinions in regard to the rules around international representation. However, I hope that people can understand that I have made this decision with honesty, integrity and the full support of my family.”
“I would like to thank Mick McCarthy, Martin O’Neill, all of the coaching staff and everyone associated with the FA of Ireland (with special thanks to Mark O’Toole), not only for their support and understanding throughout this period, but for the part they have played in my development as a young player.”
“My pride at wearing the Irish shirt was always 100 per cent genuine. It was a great honour for myself and my family, and something I will always cherish.”
“I would also like to make it clear that, in requesting to transfer my national team representation, I am not taking for granted a call-up to the England squad or making any assumptions about my future international career. However, out of respect for the Republic of Ireland, I felt it was right to announce this decision now and put an end to the speculation.”
“In football, and in life, I have always tried to be completely honest and true to myself and my family at all times, and that is what I will continue to do.”
Rice’s decision comes after months of speculation surrounding his international future as he had the opportunity declare for either nation.
Although he was brought through the Irish youth setup he was born in London and qualified to play for the Republic of Ireland via his grandparents.