Declan Rice’s decision to switch his national allegiance from Ireland to England exposed Roy Keane’s foolishness.
The 25-year-old Arsenal midfielder has accumulated 58 England caps, but he first started his international career in Ireland. In addition to his significant appearances for Ireland’s minor teams, Rice also had three appearances for the senior squad.
However, as they were non-competitive appearances, he had the freedom to change his allegiances. And that is precisely what he did in 2019, causing great annoyance to Keane, who had been serving as the assistant head coach of the Ireland national team for the past five years.
Rice, who was born in London, was not selected by England during his youth years. However, he was able to represent Ireland due to his paternal grandparents’ heritage. However, following his successful integration into West Ham’s first squad during the 2017/18 season, an effort was made to entice him to return.
Amid increasing rumours that the upcoming £105 million sensation had been contacted by the English national team, a characteristically resolute Keane stated during a news conference: “He [Rice] is of Irish nationality.” He represents the national team of Ireland in his sport.
“To what other location does he desire to go?” If given the option, between Ireland and England, the decision appears to be very clear, wouldn’t you agree? Ireland.
Keane’s remarks proved to be prophetic when Rice eventually committed his allegiance to England, and it appears that the former Manchester United icon has harboured resentment against this decision ever since. During his time as a commentator, he has made some notable criticisms of Rice, including expressing doubts about the value of the substantial fee that Arsenal spent for him last year.
“Clearly, they have overpaid for him,” remarked the 53-year-old, speaking before to the 2023 Community Shield. “He does not possess a value exceeding £100 million.”
Prior to West Ham’s memorable triumph in the Europa Conference League a few months ago, Keane asserted that Rice had not performed exceptionally well during the season and suggested that he had significantly improve in order to be regarded as a top-tier midfielder. “Despite the positive public relations surrounding him, there is a need for him to significantly enhance his performance,” remarked Keane.
“His goal-scoring and assist contributions are insufficient; he must enhance his performance in all areas.” There are rumours that he will leave for a lucrative contract and join one of the top clubs that regularly compete for trophies and participate in the Champions League. Declan Rice emphasises the need for him to improve significantly. In essence, he is requesting that fans show their support, as he will reciprocate with exceptional performances. Indeed, when one fails to meet expectations, they are bound to face criticism.
Prior to Rice’s transfer from Ireland to England, Jack Grealish also made the move after playing for Ireland’s junior teams for several years. Similar to Rice, Grealish was born and reared in England, but became eligible to represent Ireland due to his grandparents’ ancestry.
Both players are anticipated to participate in England’s Nations League match against Ireland at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin Thursday afternoon (September 7). This matchup is their initial competitive encounter on Irish territory after to their individual defections.
“Occasionally, he is merely performing actions without genuine enthusiasm or engagement.” Engaging in lateral, reverse, or opting for the path of least resistance. “He must make significant improvements in order to compete with the other elite midfielders in the nation,” he stated.
Keane also criticised Rice at Euro 2024 after the Gunners player encouraged England fans to support the squad despite their disappointing performance at the beginning of the competition. “Contemporary players are somewhat more sensitive to criticism… “I evaluate players based on their actions,” stated the individual from Cork.
