John O’Shea thinks West Ham’s Declan Rice is the ‘real deal’, but has a big warning

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West Ham United’s Declan Rice has switched international allegiance from England to Ireland.

Former Ireland international John O’Shea has told BBC Sport that he thinks West Ham United’s Declan Rice is the ‘real deal’ – but thinks his situation with England could change quickly.

The Hammers have seen Rice become a key first-team player this season, nailing down a spot in central midfield under Manuel Pellegrini.

Rice has earned huge praise over the course of the season, whilst speculation had been linking him with a big-money exit before he signed a new contract in December.

Whilst that decision was out of the way, Rice has been facing another; whether to commit his international future to England or the Republic of Ireland.

Rice was born in London, but played for Ireland at youth level as well as in three senior games, but they were friendlies, meaning he could still switch to play for England.

That’s exactly what happened last week, as Rice confirmed his intention to switch allegiance and represent England instead, leading to a huge backlash from Irish fans and even ex-players.

Now, ex-Ireland captain O’Shea – a five-time Premier League winner with Manchester United – has suggested that Rice is the ‘real deal’ having been on international duty with him in the past.

However, whilst O’Shea thinks Rice could improve England now, he did warn the 20-year-old that things could change quickly, as there are a host of factors which could prevent Rice from making an impact with the Three Lions.

“I saw him involved with the Ireland squad and he looked the real deal – then England came calling and his mind was changed,” said O’Shea. “He’s a very good player – his temperament, attitude is top-class. At the minute, he looks like he could get into England squad and improve it, but that could change very quickly. You don’t know what is around the corner, injuries, form, other English players coming through and the competition he could face,” he added.