Mick McCarthy has already spoken with Declan Rice's father, Sean, about the possibility of the 19-year-old playing for Ireland. McCarthy will also hold talks with the West Ham player next month.
Rice won three caps for Ireland, all in friendlies, before making himself unavailable for selection as he mulls over whether he will continue to play for the Republic or switch his allegiance to England.
"I spoke to Declan’s father," McCarthy said at his unveiling as the new Ireland manager on Sunday.
I had a good conversation with him.
Just clear up some things as well, some misconceptions [that] Declan wasn’t here for the games because he had a fall out with Roy or with Martin, he’s got the utmost respect for both of those guys.
But, he was asked by Gareth Southgate to go see St George’s Park. And to see whether he could be enticed to go play with them. He didn’t say he wanted to or didn’t want to. But he found it overwhelming.
I remember saying myself he should just get into the West Ham team and take a back seat and see how he’s doing. Well he’s got into that West Ham team, and he’s doing well and I’m going to go speak to him in December, when his father is around and sit down and have a chat with them both.
For those who wish to see Rice once again play for Ireland, not all hope is lost.
Picture credit: Sportsfile
