'To celebrate would've been really disrespectful of me' - Rice on his goal against Ireland

Declan Rice was one of England's standout performers in their 2-0 victory against Ireland in the Nations League. The Arsenal player opened the scoring to give his side a 0-1 lead after just 11 minutes, following up with an assist for Man City's Grealish just 15 minutes later. 

The air was tense at the Aviva Stadium, as the Irish crowd did not hold back on the midfielder - who previously represented Ireland before switching to the Three Lions just after 3 caps for the side - and welcomed him back with a 'the snakes are back' banner - also intended for Grealish. The goal could have been his opportunity to get back at the Irish fans. Nonetheless, Rice chose not to celebrate. 

“It was an amazing feeling to score, but I was never going to celebrate. I have Irish family - my nan & grandad, who are not here anymore - it would have been disrespectful to them if I celebrated.” said the 26-year-old midfielder.

Although Declan Rice has chosen to play for the England national team, he explains that he has no negative feelings towards Ireland. "I had such an amazing time playing for Ireland - the first team, the under-19s - I dont have a bad word to say to them. I wish them all the best luck," he reveals to 'Sky Sports Football' in a post-match interview.

 

September 7, 2024