West Ham midfielder Declan Rice has spoken about abuse from fans after opting to play for England over the Republic of Ireland – but says his parents were the only ones worried.
Born and raised in London, 20-year-old Rice was eligible for Ireland through his paternal grandparents, who are from Douglas in County Cork.
He represented Ireland at four youth levels, winning numerous individual accolades as the country’s most promising young player, and went on to make three senior appearances. However, after shining in the Premier League for the Hammers, he opted to commit his future to England in February this year.