Sam Allardyce Gives Brutal Response to James McClean’s Rice criticism.
Sam Allardyce and Kevin Nolan have expressed their astonishment at James McClean for his recent comments regarding England and Arsenal star Declan Rice.
McClean, a former Wrexham winger and Ireland international, has called Rice ‘overrated’, a statement that has left many in the football world baffled.
James McClean to Declan Rice: “Doesn’t Justify the Hype”
McClean, who earned over 100 caps for Ireland before retiring, briefly played alongside Declan Rice during Rice’s early international career with Ireland.
Rice, who played three matches for Ireland in 2018 before switching allegiances to England, has since become a key figure under Gareth Southgate.
Despite Rice being hailed as one of the standout signings of the 2023/24 season for Arsenal, McClean has insisted that the midfielder ‘doesn’t justify the hype’.
He reiterated his opinion following Rice’s performance in England’s disappointing draw against Denmark in the Euro 2024 Group C clash.
Allardyce and Nolan’s Reactions
The comments from McClean have shocked former England manager Sam Allardyce and Kevin Nolan, who was part of the West Ham coaching staff during Rice’s tenure at the club.
During an episode of the No Tippy Tappy Podcast, Nolan struggled to hide his disbelief.
“Well, James McClean, I mean, come on. Do me a favour,” Nolan said, almost speechless.
Allardyce, laughing, interjected with a pointed remark: “Who is he?”
Nolan, agreeing with Allardyce’s dismissal, responded, “I didn’t want to say it.”
Allardyce repeated, “Who is he? James McClean, who is he?”
The two continued their conversation, highlighting Rice’s significant contributions to Arsenal and England. Allardyce emphasized, “Ask Mikel Arteta. What he’s done for Arsenal last year.”
Nolan added, “Knowing Dec, that would’ve just made him laugh. And don’t get me wrong, he didn’t have his best game in an England jersey. That’s one in about, I reckon, 60 [53 caps]? He’s had one bad game in 60 for England. I thought he’s been brilliant every time I’ve watched him.”
Looking Ahead
Declan Rice will be aiming for a stronger performance in England’s final Group C match against Slovenia on Tuesday night, which will be broadcast live on talkSPORT at 8 pm.
As Rice continues to be a pivotal player for both Arsenal and England, his consistent performances will likely silence critics like McClean.
