Ahead of England’s final Euro 2024 group stage match against Slovenia, Arsenal star Declan Rice addressed recent criticisms made by James McClean, former teammate and current pundit for Irish TV channel RTE. McClean had labeled Rice as ‘overrated’ and ‘not world class,’ comments which followed England’s 1-1 draw with Denmark.
Rice’s Response
Rice, who switched his international allegiance from the Republic of Ireland to England in 2019, responded diplomatically to McClean’s remarks. Reflecting on his past interactions with McClean, Rice stated:
“I played with James for Ireland for three games and I got on with him really well. I am not going to sit here and slag him off. I thought he was a really top guy. When I left Ireland to come to England, I heard a few things he was obviously not happy about. He made comments a few years ago. It is what it is.”
Rice acknowledged McClean’s right to his opinion but hinted that McClean’s criticism might stem from his decision to switch national teams:
“It might be a bit of bitterness towards me not playing for Ireland but I’ve not got a bad word to say about him, to be honest. I see the comments but I don’t try to put too much energy into it. It is what it is and you move on. You live and learn.”
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McClean’s Comments
James McClean, in his role as a pundit, has been vocal about his views on Rice. He criticized the high praise Rice receives from the English media and questioned his status as a world-class player. McClean stated:
“I think Declan Rice is overrated. Don’t get me wrong, I think he’s a very good footballer, but the way the English media wax lyrical about him is completely over the top. For me, he’s not world class. To me, world class is someone who gets in every side in the world. I don’t think he does that.”
Following England’s draw with Denmark, McClean further commented:
“I made a comment about Declan Rice that people have got their knickers in a twist but for a £100million player I want to see more than just five-yard sideways and backwards passes.”
Rice’s Career and Contributions
Born in Kingston upon Thames, Rice was eligible to play for Ireland through his grandparents from Cork. After initially representing Ireland in three friendlies, he committed to England in February 2019. Since then, Rice has earned over 50 caps for England and is considered one of the top defensive midfielders in the Premier League, often compared to Manchester City’s Rodri.
As England prepares to face Slovenia, Rice’s focus remains on his performances on the pitch rather than off-field criticisms. His mature handling of McClean’s comments reflects his growing experience and leadership within the England squad.