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Redknapp: Rice can be England leader

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Jamie Redknapp has heaped praise on West Ham youngster Delcan Rice after the midfielder chose to switch international allegiance to represent England.

Rice made the announcement via his personal Twitter account on Wednesday afternoon.

Writing in a column for the Daily Mail, Sky pundit Redknapp suggested that the decision could lead to an immediate call-up from Gareth Southgate, and that the young Hammer had all the qualities needed to become a key player for the Three Lions.

He said: “He may have to wait longer to become a mainstay in England’s midfield but, in Gareth Southgate, he has a manager who has consistently given chances to young players.

“Declan has shown incredible maturity in learning his position in defensive midfield. He picks pockets, makes timely blocks and reads the game well. When I watch him at West Ham I see a natural leader.

“He is always talking and organising his team-mates. I would be amazed if he is not in next month’s squad for the Euro 2020 qualifiers against Czech Republic and Montenegro.

“His decision is great news for Southgate and England.”

OPINION

Rice’s decision to choose the Three Lions over the Republic of Ireland will be a massive boost for Gareth Southgate, who will be fully aware as to the size of the talent he now has on his hands. Knowing Southgate, you would assume that he will reward Rice’s difficult decision with an immediate call-up to the national side, even if it is more of an educational venture than anything else. The young Hammer still has a lot to learn, but on the merit of his performances this season alone he probably deserves a chance to prove himself at the top level. Looking ahead to the future, Southgate will now feel that he has found a key piece of his jigsaw for the next decade or so, and will know that the importance of a solid holding midfielder can make all the difference when challenging for international titles. On the strength of the youth bursting out of the English game at the moment, that should be the aim from now on.

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