Rice proud to get the England call

LONDON, march 20 (Xinhua) -- England midfielder Declan rice has spoken about the pride he feels at being called up for the forthcoming Euro 2020 qualifying matches against the Czech Republic and Montenegro on march 22nd and 26th.

The West Ham player earned his call up for his excellent displays this season, but England boss Gareth Southgate was only able to name him in his squad after rice was given clearance to play for England.

The 20-year-old had previously played three games for the Republic of Ireland, who he is also qualified to play for due to his Irish grandmother.

However, speaking on the English Football Association website, rice said England was the team he had in his heart.

"It was a really tough decision. I think everyone knows my situation with the Republic of Ireland. I've played there in the youth set-up, but I had to make a decision that was best for me," he commented.

rice said that "as you can hear (from my accent), I am English, I am from England... Now I'm just really looking forward to the future and pulling on the England shirt. I've just got to look forward and forget about the past," he commented.

Despite having tasted international football with Ireland, rice was still excited to get the call up from Southgate.

"You can't describe it, I just couldn't believe it. I was ill the day last week that the squad got announced. My dad came home and we were watching the TV and it came up that I was in the squad."

"The call-up is one of the best feelings you're ever going to feel," said the midfielder.