Republic of Ireland footballer James McLean called out Declan Rice after the young West Ham footballer swapped the green jersey of the national team for the colors of "Proud Albion".
Rice (20) made his first appearance as a starter for England on Monday evening in Podgorica, in a qualifying match for the 2020 European Championship, in a convincing 5-1 victory for the visitors.
He has previously played three friendlies for the Republic of Ireland, despite being born in England.
McLean, who was born in Derry, Northern Ireland, which is part of the United Kingdom, has now lashed out at his former national team-mate.
"First he said he was proud to be Irish, and now he's proud to be English. If it's both - good luck, but I don't fall for that. I believe you can only be one or the other," McLean said. for RTE television.
"I was playing for Derry City when I was invited to play for Northern Ireland. I refused the invitation, because it's not my country, it never was. I'm Irish," McLean said.
"It's not just about Declan, it's about any footballer. If you're not proud to be here and if we're just a stepping stone for you, then **** off and play for someone else," said the Irish footballer.
"I'm Irish. I grew up on the island of Ireland, it's that simple. We only want those footballers who want to play for us, who consider themselves Irish and are proud to be Irish," he concluded.
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