Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
Irish won’t Hammer teen Rice
DARREN RANDOLPH says the Ireland players would welcome Declan Rice back into the mix with open arms.
The West Ham teenager – who has been capped three times in friendlies – is currently unavailable as he deliberates over his international future.
England boss Gareth Southgate is keen for the versatile London-born defender to side with the World Cup semi-finalists.
But Martin O’neill has told the 19-year-old that he will win far more senior caps with the Boys in
Green.
Goalkeeper Randolph insists Rice should have no concerns about easing back into the squad if he sides with Ireland.
Asked if there would be any dressing room issues, Randolph said: “No. If he comes back in, he’s back in. He’s been part of the squad.
“Forget about it and get back on the pitch and perform. If he decides to come back and he’s playing well, I don’t think anyone will be worrying about it too much.
“They’ll say ‘Thank God he chose to play.’ I was a little bit surprised, yes. It happens when you’ve young talent – everyone wants a piece.”
Randolph understands Rice’s dilemma as he was eligible to play for the United States – and was approached to do so earlier in his career but he sided with Ireland.
“I’ve got two passports, Irish and American,” he said. “I kind of understand the position he’s in.
“But because I played from U16 level all the way up, it seemed only natural to stick to it and try progress.”