FAI still waiting for clarity from Rice

THE FAI are not expecting clarity on Declan Rice’s international future ahead of Martin O’Neill’s November squad announcement next Tuesday.

Fresh reports emanating from across the water have stated that Rice is ready to opt for England following a tour of their facilities with Gareth Southgate.

But there are no indications that the Irish camp have received notification from Rice that he wants to switch his international allegiance. It remains likely that his position will be a talking point as O’Neill names his squad for the games with Northern Ireland and Denmark.

Rice’s childhood club Chelsea have been linked with a move for the West Ham player’s services amid his ongoing contract dispute.

RICE grew up as a Chelsea fan and was with their academy until he was released at the age of 14.

He’s on a £3,000-a-week (€3,400) deal at West Ham and is waiting for his club to match his demands.

Indeed, that impasse has been linked to his Irish position. Rice changed agent last summer and his representatives are demanding that his deal rises to the £40,000-a-week (€45,000) territory.

West Ham have failed to meet those demands and offered a wage rise that would gradually slide upwards from £20,000.

Chelsea are now reported to be monitoring the situation. The in-form player was previously linked with a switch to German giants Borussia Dortmund.

West Ham fans have put pressure on the club to get the situation with Rice resolved.

O’Neill has stated that he wants to know where Rice stands in terms of his international dilemma before the year is out. The player has dodged questions on the issue.