James McClean bizarrely calls Arsenal star Declan Rice ‘overrated’

James McClean thinks that Declan Rice is overrated and is nowhere near being world-class.

James McClean bizarrely calls Arsenal star Declan Rice ‘overrated’

Declan Rice couldn't be more prepared for the final against Spain (Via IMAGO)

Declan Rice‘s impressive Premier League season with Arsenal earned him a spot in Gareth Southgate‘s 26-man squad for the Euros. The player impressed both fans and pundits alike in The Three Lions’ tournament opener against Serbia. However, as England prepare for their second group-stage fixture against Denmark, a former teammate of Rice came forward with harsh criticism of the midfielder.

Wrexham player James McClean did not hold back when having a go at Declan Rice, his former international teammate at Ireland. Even though there is no denying the accusation that English media is often ruthless and ‘needlessly’ hypes up their players, many feel that Rice deserves every bit of praise coming his way. However, the Wrexham man certainly didn’t think so.

YouTube video
I think Declan Rice is overrated. The way English media wax lyrical about him is completely over the top. For me, he's not world-class.
James McClean said on live TV

The Wrexham left-back claimed that world-class footballers have the ability to dictate games and control play, while Rice can’t do so. The Irishman even called him a ‘poor man’s Roy Keane‘.

FS Video

Man United starlet showers praise on Declan Rice ahead of Denmark clash

It cost Arsenal a whopping £105 million to bring Declan Rice in from West Ham United at the start of last season. English media, fans and several pundits have shared positive opinions about Rice and his importance to the English squad. Even Manchester United starlet Kobbie Mainoo couldn’t resist from showering a bit of praise on his international teammate.

Kobbie Mainoo & Declan Rice
Kobbie Mainoo has some heavy words of praise for Declan Rice ahead of the game vs Denmark (Via X/@England)
He's such a good player. It's such a joy to have someone so strong on the ball. Everyone knows he's worth every penny. He frees me up a lot.
Kobbie Mainoo said in a press conference

Mainoo started the game on the bench against Serbia before coming on in the final minutes. The Three Lions got off to a winning start against Serbia on Monday, even though the scoreline remained unconvincing to many. England are one of the strongest favorites to lift the 2024 Euros title, but Gareth Southgate‘s men are in for a much more ‘difficult’ challenge in Denmark as they look to secure qualification to the Round of 16.

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