Gareth Southgate Has Contacted Player Asking If He’ll Switch Allegiances

England manager Gareth Southagate has spoken to a Premier League player about switching his allegiance.

In a recent press conference, the 46-year-old has come out and said that has been in talks with Declan Rice about potentially playing for England in the future - which speaks volumes about the West Ham youngster's overall potential.

Rice currently plays under Martin O'Neil at the Republic of Ireland, but things could change if he decides to play elsewhere.

The R.O.I manager said before their recent clash with Wales and Poland that the player is still deliberating over a switch.

"He is still deliberating. He is a young man. England have spoken to him. He is taking time to make his mind up. He has done brilliantly for us. I'm giving him a little bit of time." O'Neil said.

"I wouldn't be exaggerating to say Declan has loved it with us."

The news has been met with a mixed reaction, with Sky pundit Gary Neville slamming the idea, recalling the situation when Aston Villa midfielder Jack Grealish was deciding his allegiance.

"You should know where your allegiance lies." Neville said on Twitter.

"I remember when with England and Grealish ( the agent ) wanting meetings so he could decide who to choose. The idea of a country begging/trying to convince someone to represent them is wrong."

Thoughts on Declan Rice potentially moving to the England set-up?

Let us know in the comments.

Topics: Ireland, Football News, Football, England, Declan Rice, Gareth Southgate

Jack Kenmare

Jack Kenmare is a writer at SPORTbible. He's interviewed some of the biggest names in sport, including Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Pele, Carles Puyol and Tim Henman. He dabbles in all things sport but football is his biggest passion. He was once hit in the head by a wayward strike from Nicky Butt and lived to tell the tale.

@jackkenmare_