It was only last year that there was a struggle between two nations in which Declan Rice would represent.
The central midfielder chose England on that occasion, snubbing the opportunity to continue his Republic of Ireland career despite progressing through the youth ranks and winning three senior caps.
That was a tough decision taken by the holding midfielder and it will require another test of fortitude to leave West Ham United and potentially move across London to join Chelsea instead of the lure of Manchester United.
The path taken by Frank Lampard and Joe Cole may put a bad taste in the mouths of Hammers fans, but here is why a move to Stamford Bridge makes more sense than Old Trafford.
Proving the doubters wrong
Rice was a boyhood Chelsea fan and joined the club’s youth academy aged just seven, fulfilling a young dream.
However, seven years later and the player, born and raised in Kingston upon Thames, was released by the Blues with his future in the game left in limbo.
It was West Ham who realised his true potential, signing him on a youth contract before nurturing him into the talent that he is today.
It is clear that Chelsea made a huge error in letting the youngster slip through their net seven years ago but Rice will be aware that he has the potential to become a regular at Stamford Bridge and will be particularly motivated to continue his progress.
Frank Lampard trusts in young, English players
Rice has been an ever-present in the Hammers side this season, making 35 appearances and earning the total trust of both Manuel Pellegrini and David Moyes.
His next move will need to not only be a step-up in ambition but also in a setup where his potential will be realised and where his talent can be utilised
In an anecdote to the club’s recent history, Blues boss Lampard is implementing a long-term vision at Stamford Bridge and giving multiple youth graduates a chance.
This is not only brought on by Chelsea’s recent transfer ban, but a continuation of his managerial approach at Derby County and drawing on the knowhow of assistant Jody Morris - a highly successful youth team coach at Stamford Bridge.
The same is largely true at Manchester United, where the club’s direction under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has veered towards trusting young and homegrown talent. However, Scott McTominay occupies a similar profile in terms of skillset and age to Rice, while Fred and Nemanja Matic are both enjoying prolonged runs of strong form this campaign.
With Paul Pogba also expected to return to the fold, the club are well stocked on central midfield options. Somewhat deceptively, Chelsea are not in the same situation.
Fits Chelsea’s midfield model
The recent emergence of Billy Gilmour has offered a glimpse of the potential midfield star in West London for the next decade. The Scottish teenager clearly possesses outstanding talent but his development would be complemented, not impeded, by the arrival of Rice.
The Scot is more dynamic and attack-minded than Rice, who would sit further back and anchor the midfield.
There are doubts over the long-term future of Jorginho at Stamford Bridge, with widespread reports that he could return to Italy.
Chelsea have an impressive set of midfielders but aside from Jorginho, there are few other specialist holding midfielders. N’Golo Kante has been shifted into a more adaptable role by Maurizio Sarri and then Lampard.
There is little doubt that a move to Stamford Bridge would suit Rice as he would not have to change home city and would appear to be an ideal fit for the Europa League holders.
