Declan Rice sought out the advice of former England captain John Terry before committing to play for the Three Lions.
The West Ham midfielder this week turned his back on the Republic of Ireland and asked FIFA to allow him to switch allegiances.
Despite earning three caps, all in friendlies, last year, Rice will now be considered for selection by Gareth Southgate for next month's double-header with Czech Republic and Montenegro.
Key to his decision was Terry, who has become a key source of advice for the youngster, according to The Sun.
The pair have developed a close friendship since Rice was released by Chelsea as a 14-year-old.
Terry is understood to have unexpectedly called Rice after his departure and they have remained in regular contact ever since.
hondekmouz
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Words of wisdom from John Terry. Let's remember he is the man who was banned from the champions league final, but got changed anyway into full kit, including shin pads, to lift the trophy. The last time he got changed that quickly was when he heard Michael Bridges car pull up in the driveway.
You're funny, Bro!
hondekmouz
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This boy can play, OK! And he's only 20 years old.
Uniqu
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What kind of advice can John Terry offer a young starlet? Hmm, let me think.
Well quite a lot considering he is one of the best defensive players the PL has ever seen, and Rice is a defensive minded player.
particles
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Words of wisdom from John Terry. Let's remember he is the man who was banned from the champions league final, but got changed anyway into full kit, including shin pads, to lift the trophy. The last time he got changed that quickly was when he heard Michael Bridges car pull up in the driveway.
I think you mean Wayne Bridge.
Billeorck
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What kind of advice can John Terry offer a young starlet? Hmm, let me think.
Buffet
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Words of wisdom from John Terry. Let's remember he is the man who was banned from the champions league final, but got changed anyway into full kit, including shin pads, to lift the trophy. The last time he got changed that quickly was when he heard Michael Bridges car pull up in the driveway.
Jeremiaher
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Seriously? Fighting over an average player! Nothing special, just give any average youth a chance from any academy and you'll get a Declan Rice. Can he dribbles like Messi? Can he finishes like Ronaldo? Certainly just big and physical and no pace and you'll get plenty of players of his traits in any academy if given a chance.
Lochukap
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Born and raised in England. Never lived in Ireland. It was an easy choice really wasn't it?
Edithsim
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Declan Rice is a real disappointment to be honest!
Docrivers
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Hes good what I have seen of him and I am glad hes chosen England