As speculation grows regarding the hitherto unlikely return of Declan Rice to the Irish fold, new manager Mick McCarthy spoke positively about his meetings with the West Ham youngster, and revealed the international future he can envision for the promising Rice.
Appearing on Sky Sports this morning, McCarthy confirmed that he had "had a really good meeting with him."
"It was myself, Robbie Keane and his Dad," McCarthy clarified.
"It’s up to him when he wants to decide. That’s how I left it to be quite honest with you. It’s not my decision as to whether he plays for the Republic of Ireland. It’s only my job that if he wants to stay with us I could pick him."
Speaking highly of Rice's demeanor both on and off the pitch, McCarthy admitted that he would "love to build a team around him ... he could be a future captain, he is that type of player."
However, unwilling to have his admittedly brief reign in charge tinged with the Rice question that plagued much of Martin O'Neill's latter years with Ireland, McCarthy has laid down a time-limit as to how long he is willing to wait; "We start in March. That’s my deadline because I need to know by then."
Discussing the possibility of calling upon the services of another player previously touted as a potential Irish international, McCarthy also spoke of his willingness "to speak to Patrick [Bamford]."
Currently playing with Leeds United in the Championship, McCarthy revealed that his assistant Terry Connor will be in Villa Park this afternoon to keep an eye on Bamford as Leeds travel to take on Aston Villa.
Download the brand new OffTheBall App in the Play Store & App Store right now! We've got you covered!
Subscribe to OffTheBall's YouTube channel for more videos, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for the latest sporting news and content.
