Declan Rice To Captain England On 50th Cap Against Belgium
Declan Rice will captain England on the occasion of his 50th cap against Belgium on Tuesday.
The Arsenal midfielder will stand in for regular skipper Harry Kane, who will miss the game through injury.
Senior squad members Harry Maguire and Jordan Henderson will also be absent through their respective fitness issues.
Incidentally, Rice started his international career with the Republic of Ireland, winning three caps in friendly games before switching to England in 2019.
Reflecting on his latest career achievement, Declan said: "I'm speechless to be honest with you, absolutely lost for words. I think when [Southgate] told me last night I was going to be captain, I gave him a hug, shook his hand and said thank you very much.
"I owe him a lot. Since I first came into the team he's always made me feel at home, I always felt so comfortable playing under him. I've really grown in confidence.
“50 caps is a pinch-me moment, it will be an honour. On my 50th cap, to walk out at Wembley in front of my family and friends, is a great honour.
“I think I have grown so much as a player and a person since I first came into the group at 19. I was probably a bit of a nervous player when I first came into the England squad, but as time has gone on I’ve played more big games, more games at major tournaments. I have enjoyed every moment."
England manager Gareth Southgate added: "He has great leadership experience already at a tender age. I think it's a brilliant opportunity for some of our young players to show leadership. Some of our core group are not with us, so there's a different feel about the group and that's a great opportunity for other people to step up, to lead, to grow.
"A lot of the players involved are the future of the team for the mid and long-term, and the more of those experiences they can have is useful for everybody."
