Declan Rice ‘only has one option’ when it comes to the decision over his international future – and that’s England, according to Danny Murphy.
The West Ham starlet, who turned 20 on Monday, has yet to officially decide whether to represent England or Republic of Ireland at international level.
London-born Rice, whose grandparents are from Cork, has already made three senior appearances for Ireland – but he can still switch his allegiance to England.
The Three Lions have been interested in the starlet ever since he burst onto the scene for West Ham last season.
And they will be even more determined to sway him after his brilliant performances this term – including his man-of-the-match display and winning goal against Arsenal this weekend.
WATCH: Declan Rice celebrates win over Arsenal at the pub with West Ham fans
And the former England midfielder believes there is truly only one place for the versatile starlet.
“You’re going to play in more World Cups and European Championships for England than you are for Republic of Ireland – history tells us that,” the ex-Liverpool and Tottenham man told talkSPORT host Jim White.
“That’s a big thing for a footballer.
“Also, holding midfield is the one area in the England squad that’s up for grabs, for me.
“You look at Dier, Henderson, who else is there?
“Declan Rice is probably looking around thinking he’s not scared of any of the other players in terms of competition.
MORE: Ireland legend says Declan Rice should pledge his allegiance to England
“Could he make that position his own? He’s got a good chance if he decides to choose England.
“I don’t know how strong the Irish connection is in his family, so that’s another thing to take into consideration.
“But purely from a football perspective, there’s only one option.
“There is only one option if you want to play in the biggest tournaments in the world and that’s England.
“Is it a realistic possibility that he can get in that England team in the future? I think the answer is ‘yes’.”
