Declan Rice has issued an apology for remarks made on social media which appeared to show support for the Provisional Irish Republican Army (IRA).
The West Ham star, who has controversially switched his international allegiance from the Republic to Ireland to England, used the phrase ‘Up the RA’ at least three times in posts on Instagram and Twitter in 2015.
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Declan Rice has been forced to issue an apology ahead of his England debut
The phrase is widely used to demonstrate support and show encouragement for the IRA.
In one message – in response to an Ireland Under-17 teammate – he remarked: “UP THE RA – Wait til we draw England.â€
After the old posts resurfaced, Rice wrote on Instagram on Thursday: “I am aware that a poorly-expressed comment I made when I was a junior player has been circulated on social media.
“I recognise now that my attempt to show support for my team-mates at the time could be negatively interpreted.
“While my naive words were not meant to be a political opinion and do not represent who I am, I sincerely apologise for any offence caused.”
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Declan Rice issued this apology on social media ofter the old posts resurfaced
A Football Association spokesperson said: “We are aware of the matter and will be writing to him to remind him of his responsibilities.”
Rice, 20, is currently training with the England squad ahead of Friday’s Euro 2020 qualifier against the Czech Republic at Wembley.
He was called up to the squad for the first time by Gareth Southgate after declaring his intention to play for the Three Lions last month, despite having already represented the Republic of Ireland.
The London-born midfielder, who has grandparents from Cork, has won three caps for the Republic of Ireland but as all were friendly matches he remained eligible to play for the country of his birth.
Speaking earlier this week, Rice said: “It was a really tough decision.
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Declan Rice made 23 appearances for Ireland at youth and senior level in total
“I think everyone knows my situation with the Republic of Ireland. I’ve played there in the youth setup, but I had to make a decision that was best for me.
“As you can hear, I am English, I am from England and it was really good playing for Ireland. Now I’m just really looking forward to the future and pulling on the England shirt.
“I’ve just got to look forward and forget about the past.â€
Meanwhile, Southgate has defended Rice, insisting the comments are not in line with Rice’s current beliefs.
“He’s apologised. It’s not representative of what he believes and feels and his views,” Southgate told the media.
“Outside of that, the obvious point is when he was 15, 16 when engaged in a conversation with friends.”
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