Rice rejects Ireland call up as he vows to focus on West Ham career

Declan Rice has a lot on his plate for a 19-year-old.

A contract stand-off for his club, and a dilemma over which country he wants to choose to represent are clouding what has been a confident start to the season from the versatile Rice.

Becoming a regular fixture in Manuel Pellegrini’s starting lineup, the former Chelsea youth product rejected a spot in Martin O’Neill’s Ireland squad for last month’s UEFA Nations League match with Wales.

Having played three friendlies for Ireland already – qualifying through his grandparents – playing a competitive match (as the Nations League is) would commit his future to the nation.

Rice is understood to have had a meeting with England boss Gareth Southgate, so may be preparing to switch his allegiances to the country of his birth.

Having played for Ireland from the age of 16 at age group, it can’t be denied the midfielder/defender has a history with the Emerald Isle.

With West Ham, The Times claim Rice has been offered an improved £40,000-a-week deal from the club, but is yet to accept. Wanting the matter sorted before addressing his international status, the London-native is focusing on domestic endeavours for the time being.