Kevin Kilbane has given a stinging rebuke to Declan Rice and others deemed to be using one country before declaring for another, saying that he has 'used' Ireland.
Martin O'Neill delivered the news that Declan Rice has been omitted from the Ireland squad to face Wales in the wake of an approach by England to represent the Three Lions. With 118 caps for Ireland, Kevin gave his thoughts on the situation surrounding Rice, and he did not hold back.
"Don't play for us in the first place. Do not play for us in the first place and use us to enhance your reputation and your chances of playing for England. I don't want you."
Moreover, Kevin told us that regardless of what fans think of the situation, players like Rice might be walking back into a less-than-welcoming dressing room.
"I've been in this position before where we've had lads thinking 'If I don't make the England squad, I might declare for Ireland...' I've been in that situation sat on the bus going to training and players have thought 'Nah - on you go.'"
"There will be a large element within that squad thinking 'Nah - not wanted.'"
In terms of Rice's approach so far, Kilbane was taken aback by Rice's recent public pronouncements about his international allegiance.
He's played three times. The messages have been clear - I've seen videos and heard him talk - it's been "I'm Irish - I want to play for Ireland."
"Then what is there to think about?"
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