Euro 2024: Declan Rice claps back at England critics

Declan Rice has strongly defended himself and his England teammates against recent criticism as they compete in Euro 2024.

The scrutiny intensified after England’s 1-1 draw with Denmark on Thursday, following a narrow 1-0 victory over Serbia, courtesy of Jude Bellingham’s goal.

In the lead-up to England’s crucial match against Slovenia, Rice addressed the critiques from former players, including those directed at Phil Foden and Trent Alexander-Arnold.

When asked by ITV’s Gabriel Clarke about his reaction to the criticism from ex-players, Declan Rice responded,

“No, I’m not disappointed because I’ve played football long enough now, I know how they work. That’s why I really do not get bothered about it at all. Look, they’re entitled to their opinion. They’re on TV, they’re saying whatever they want. I know some of them personally. They’re great guys.”

Rice continued, emphasizing the need for positivity,

“They’ve been where I’m sat, where our other players have sat and not done well at tournaments. So look, I don’t why we feel like such a negative thing. We’re talking like we’re going out of the tournament here. We’re top of the group, we need to stay positive, stay upbeat.”

He highlighted the importance of encouraging the younger players, “Let’s give players the best confidence in the world. Players like Phil Foden, Bukayo Saka, Jude Bellingham, tell them they’re the best players in the world. Make them read that and think ‘I’m going to go out there and perform and give it absolutely everything.’”

Declan Rice concluded by urging a shift in focus away from negativity,

“Rather than reading the negative comments sitting on their mind and then thinking that they can’t play a certain way. That’s the way I think about it. And I’m sure we have enough of them people as well which is good.”

England, currently leading their group, look to maintain their momentum and secure a positive result against Slovenia.