Declan Rice explains decision not to celebrate after scoring in England's win over Ireland

Declan Rice has admitted that celebrating his goal against the Republic of Ireland would've been disrespectful to his family.

England registered their first win under interim boss Lee Carsley on Saturday as Arsenal midfielder Rice and Manchester City winger Jack Grealish fired stunning goals past Liverpool's Caoimhin Kelleher. The Three Lions returned from Dublin with a 2-0 victory in their opening UEFA Nations League fixture, however not all members of the squad were quick to celebrate.

Rice opened the scoreline in the 11th minute, blasting a strike into the top corner before receiving boos from a large majority of the Irish fans in attendance. After putting his side ahead Rice made the decision not to celebrate.

"To have celebrated, it would have been really disrespectful of me," he told Sky Sports News after the victory. "My nan and grandad, my dad's side of the family are all Irish and they've obviously passed away. They're not here anymore.

"I didn't want to do that, to be honest with you. I had such an amazing time playing for Ireland, even in the first team, the U19s, U21s, They were great memories that live with me. So, look, I don't have a bad word to say, to be honest with you. I wish them all the best."

Rice, who represented Ireland at three youth levels, made three appearances for the senior team before switching allegiances to England. Grealish, who also scored in Saturday's win, followed a similar path after playing for the nation's youth teams - however he never made a senior appearance for Ireland.

The City star made a stunning return to international football after failing to receive a call-up to Gareth Southgate's Euro 2024 squad, admitting there's "no bad blood whatsoever" after scoring against his former nation.

England are set to return to the pitch on Tuesday when they face Finland at Wembley Stadium.

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