Former Republic of Ireland international Jason McAteer believes new coach Mick McCarthy is capable of securing Declan Rice's commitment.

West Ham utility Rice also qualifies for England and is weighing up his commitment.

McAteer told the Irish Independent: "Knowing Mick as I do, it wouldn't surprise me if Declan Rice decided to represent Ireland now.

"However, the way they're moving, Declan possibly thinks England. Gareth Southgate is doing a really good job and he might want to be a part of that. England have a better chance of winning a World Cup.

“But I don't think he'd play a great deal of football for England. There are four of five midfielders that maybe come before him.

"For Ireland, he'd be a key player. He could be a star for us."

Jason McAteer, speaking exclusively for bookmaker comparison platform your-promotional-code.co.uk