The FA have submitted paperwork to FIFA to begin proceedings to switch Declan Rice’s international allegiance from the Republic of Ireland to England, according to the Mirror.
Rice recently revealed his decision to play for the Three Lions instead of Ireland, despite already appearing for the Republic in a friendly.
A FIFA spokesman told the Mirror:
We can confirm that FIFA received the request for change of association from Ireland to England for Declan Rice. We have no further comments as the request is currently under investigation.
Southgate will name his squad for the upcoming Euro 2020 qualifiers against the Czech Republic next Wednesday, and Rice is expected to be in the squad.
The England boss was in the stands to watch Rice on Wednesday, as the Hammers fell to a 1-0 defeat to Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium.
However, any call up will rely on the paperwork being processed in time, with Rice needing the go-ahead to play for the Three Lions from FIFA.
The West Ham midfielder played at youth level for Ireland, and also appeared in three senior friendlies. He is still eligible for England as he has not appeared in a competitive fixture for the Republic of Ireland.
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