Sam Allardyce gives brutal response after James McClean called Arsenal star Declan Rice ‘overrated’
Sam Allardyce and Kevin Nolan have been left stunned by James McClean's opinion that England star Declan Rice is 'overrated'.
The Wrexham winger, who made over 100 appearances for Ireland before retiring last year, briefly played with the 25-year-old on international duty.
Rice played three times for Ireland in 2018 before switching allegiances to England, where he has become a key player under Gareth Southgate.
Hailed as one of the signings of the 2023/24 season following his dazzling displays for Arsenal, McClean has surprisingly insisted that the midfielder 'doesn't justify the hype'.
And he then doubled down on his controversial opinion following Rice's showing in the Three Lions' dismal draw against Denmark in Thursday's Group C Euro 2020 group stage clash.
The 35-year-old's comments have shocked ex-England boss Allardyce, along with Nolan, who was part of the West Ham coaching staff during Rice's spell at the London Stadium.
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Giving his reaction on the No Tippy Tappy Podcast, an almost speechless Nolan said: "Well, James McClean, I mean, come on. Do me a favour."
Interjecting, a laughing Allardyce then quipped: "Who is he?"
Agreeing with Allardyce's jibe, Nolan stated: I didn't want to say it."
Allardyce then again remarked: "Who is he? James McClean, who is he?"
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With Nolan still left struggling to comprehend McClean's opinion, Allardyce said: "Ask Mikel Arteta. What he's done for Arsenal last year."
Nolan then remarked: "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."
Rice will be hoping for a better performance on Tuesday night in England's final Group C match against Slovenia at 8pm - live on talkSPORT.
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