Mick McCarthy says he would “love to build a team around” the Hammers midfielder, who is deciding whether to pick the Boys in Green or England.
West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice has been earmarked for a significant role in the Republic of Ireland setup should he opt to play for the Boys in Green.
The 19-year-old is currently mulling over picking England, where he was born and raised, and the Republic, where his paternal grandparents hail from (Irish Independent).
Rice has been capped three times at senior level for Ireland, but not in a competitive match, leaving him eligible to switch to England.
Mick McCarthy, in his second term as Republic boss, met Rice earlier this month and, speaking on Sky Sports show Goals on Sunday, said he wants him to be an integral part of his team.
“I’d love to build a team around him. We start in March and that’s my deadline I guess, I need to know by then,” said McCarthy. “He could be a future captain – he’s that type of player.”
As well as being sought after by Ireland, Rice is fast becoming a fan favourite at the London Stadium due to his mature, commanding performances in the Hammers’ midfield.
However, the teenager’s contract at the club only runs until the end of next season and no new deal has been agreed as of yet, leaving him having to make two key decisions over the coming months.
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