Declan Rice ‘deliberating’ switching from Republic of Ireland to England – Martin O’Neill

London-born Rice has three senior caps for the Republic but they all came in friendly matches, meaning the 19-year-old could yet decide to represent England instead.

After announcing his squad on Monday for next month’s UEFA Nations League clash with Wales and a friendly against Poland, O’Neill said: “He (Rice) is still deliberating.

“He is a young man. England have spoken to him.

“He is taking time to make his mind up. He has done brilliantly for us.

“I’m giving him a little bit of time.”

Rice –who has been capped at several youth levels of Ireland – made his debut against Turkey in March and then featured in two further friendlies at the end of last season.

Born in London, he qualifies for the Republic as his grandparents were from Cork.

The meeting with Wales in Cardiff in the newly-formed Nations League constitutes a competitive fixture and so, if Rice had played, he could then be tied to the Republic of Ireland for the remainder of his career.

“I wouldn’t be exaggerating to say Declan has loved it with us,” said O’Neill.

“After the Turkey game his father was there and it was a joyous moment for them. We have done everything we can. He has been welcomed by the squad, the fans. He is taking time and I am respecting that.”

Elsewhere in O’Neill’s squad, former England youth international Callum Robinson has received his first call-up.

Preston striker Robinson, previously capped at England Under-20 level, qualifies for the Republic of Ireland through his grandmother and now has international clearance.