Declan Rice chooses England: How Gareth Southgate’s men could line up after West Ham midfielder snubs Republic of Ireland

Declan Rice chooses England: How Gareth Southgate’s men could line up after West Ham midfielder snubs Republic of Ireland
England have won the battle over the Republic of Ireland to land Declan Rice after the midfielder declared he will play his international football with the Three Lions.Rice, 20, was born and raised in England, but was eligible for Ireland through his grandparents and even made made appearances for the latter in three international friendlies.4

Rice has chosen England at international level

He represented the Boys in Green at youth level but has changed his international allegiances at senior level.The West Ham man is one of the brightest young prospects in the Premier League, so this is a massive coup for Three Lions boss Gareth Southgate. It strengthens England’s options but where would Rice fit in should he receive a call-up from the national team?talkSPORT.com has had a look at the different ways England could line up with their latest recruit Rice.4

Could Rice feature for England in their UEFA Nations League campaign?

If England are in an attacking mood and want to put Rice in their XI then this could be a team to consider for Southgate.Rice’s primary role at West Ham is to break up the play so this could give the more creative Harry Winks and Jesse Lingard licence to join England’s front three, which basically picks itself.4

An alternative England line up with Rice in an out-and-out holding role

Southgate could be tempted to try a 4-4-2 diamond formation with Rice playing in an out-and-out holding role.Raheem Sterling could head the diamond as he has experience in that role at club level while Lingard and Winks can fulfil the attacking and defensive duties.4

A more defensive England line-up with Rice in it

There are also games where you need to opt for a more defensive approach, however.So Southgate may consider a 4-2-3-1 formation for those more difficult matches but this would play into Rice’s hands quite well.He’d be more involved with the game and would play in the holding role alongside experienced England internationals Jordan Henderson or Eric Dier to guide him through.

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