OPINION
Someone was always going to be disappointed by Declan Rice’s decision over his international allegiance, and England fans should be thankful that he chose the Three Lions over the Republic of Ireland.
The 20-year-old is a supremely talented defensive midfielder who is only going to get better, and who could go on to become on of the most valuable assets in the English game if he continues on his current trajectory.
Having played three friendlies for Ireland, it’s understandable that their fans may feel some disgruntlement at Rice’s choice to switch his representation, but people seem to be losing sight of the fact that he has done nothing wrong.
Writing in a column for the Daily Star, chief football writer Jeremy Cross was quick to label the West Ham star as disrespectful, painting a picture of a young player who had his head turned by the promise of a greater chance of winning silverware with England, and who had essentially taken a mercenary’s view of his time with Ireland.
That’s entirely unjustified.
Rice was born in England to an English mother and an Irish father. His claim to represent either nation is equally legitimate, and who are we, as outsiders and pundits, to dictate to him his own sense of identity?
Yes, he has played for Ireland, but given the level-headedness and respectful demeanour of the young man, to suggest that this is some fly by night decision made on a whim does him a huge injustice.
Maybe the system is flawed, but rally at the governing bodies of the international game, not at a player barely out of his teens making his way in the game.
And as for Ireland, this kind of situation must be expected when they insist on jumping on any player with even a semblance of Irish heritage as soon as they break into senior football.
Whoever is at fault here, if there is any blame to be apportioned at all, it is not Rice, and this witch hunt needs to stop.