O’Neill and FAI in the dark over Rice plans

MARTIN O’NEILL has claimed he is still in the dark about Declan Rice’s intentions.

The West Ham youngster made himself unavailable for the games with Wales and Poland after interest from England turned his head.

However, it’s believed that the Irish camp are now reasonably confident the 19-year-old might stick with them.

In the aftermath of Tuesday’s 1-1 draw with Poland, O’Neill said he was unaware of any update with regard to Rice’s position.

“I don’t know any more than you do at this particular juncture,” he said.

“Honestly, I genuinely don’t. There’s no point in me commenting here positively or negatively until I get to talk to the people again.”

O’Neill again stressed his hope that a reconciliation between his assistant Roy Keane and Harry Arter would materialise.

The fresh concern is Seamus Coleman’s fitness after it emerged that a stress fracture in the foot was the reason for the Everton skipper’s unavailability in Wroclaw.

First-team players James McClean, Robbie Brady and James McCarthy already have work to do to ensure they are fit for the October fixtures with Denmark and Wales. Shane Long should also be available.

Ireland striker Aiden O’Brien – who scored in Poland – says Rice should be given time to make his decision.

London-born O’Brien turned down an approach from England as a teen and opted for Ireland.

“He has to make his own decision,” said O’Brien. “When I was 17 I was offered England and Ireland and I chose Ireland, all of my family are Irish.

“Even though I am from England it doesn’t mean I am English, my background is all Irish, always has been, and I am so proud to be out on that pitch playing for the Irish nation and for legends like Martin O’Neill and Roy Keane.”