Republic of Ireland coach Mick McCarthy has slammed the decision to name Declan Rice the FAI Young Player of the Year just weeks after he defected to play for England.

The 20-year-old West Ham defensive midfielder was deemed the best young player by a panel of Soccer Writiers' Association of Ireland (SWAI) for his three senior appearances last year in friendly matches.

Speaking from the Aviva stadium as the FAI announced SportPesa as their new official betting partner, McCarthy said: “I wouldn't have given it to him. Would I heck!

“Initially, I said it should be given to someone that deserves it, and that was wrong, but he was playing and if he was the best player, then he deserved it.

“In my view, the decision should have been changed and the award given to someone who would really appreciate it.

“He [Rice] is not going to appreciate it. He probably feels slightly embarrassed by it."