Declan Rice has revealed the words England captain Harry Kane said to him when he joined up with the Three Lions for the first time last month.
The West Ham midfielder was called up to the England squad for the first time by Gareth Southgate for the recent European Championships qualifiers with Czech Republic and Montenegro, having switched his international allegiance from the Republic of Ireland.
And Rice has opened up on the conversation he had with the Tottenham striker when he joined up with the England squad at St George's Park.
“I was speaking to Harry Kane and he said ‘you’ve had such a great season, I’ve watched West Ham and I like the way you play, just be confident when you come in here and do your best'," Rice told BBC programme Football Focus.
“Straight away to hear that from the captain, that’s what you want to hear."
Rice also spoke about his decision to switch international allegiance, having played three times for Ireland at senior level before switching to play for the Three Lions.
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And he said he feels privileged to be in the position he is now, having established himself in the West Ham first team and now played twice for England.
“At 20 years old I didn’t really think I would have to be making such a tough decision, it has all come so quick," he said.
“I didn’t see it coming as quickly because we have so many good players in England. So when the call-up came it was a surprise, it was a shock.
“But from the moment I walked through the door, it was probably one of the best weeks I have had. Everything about it was so special. They made me feel really welcome.
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“It is weird to think the position I am in now, with 65 appearances for West Ham and having played for England. I am really grateful for it and it shows where hard work and determination can get you.
“It’s the best job in the world [being a footballer] and I wouldn’t change it for anything.”
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