Arsenal star Declan Rice kicked off his international break in perfect style when featuring for England against the Republic of Ireland.
The midfielder went into the two-week break in far from ideal condition, receiving a red card against Brighton in the Premier League.
Rice will miss the clash against Tottenham in the North London Derby as a result, coming as a huge blow to the Gunners.
With the 25-year-old missing out on that game time, he has looked to keep himself ticking over with England on international duty.
Rice was given the nod from England interim boss Lee Carsley to start for his side against the Republic of Ireland in the UEFA Nations League and started in ideal fashion.
- READ MORE: Why Declan Rice was booed at Ireland v England match as Arsenal star features in international duty
Declan Rice goal celebration vs Ireland
Arsenal star Rice was bombarded with boos from the home faithful as the midfielder had previously represented Ireland before switching allegiances to England.
That reception didn’t seem to faze him though as he arrived late in the box to score a stunning top-corner goal for the Three Lions to open the scoring.
Many wondered how he would react to the occasion, but Rice decided to opt for mooted celebrations instead of the usual enjoyment he shows when scoring.
The former Ireland international was likely showing respect to the nation he once represented, despite the reaction from the crowd.
How Jack Grealish reacted to scoring against Ireland
While Rice was receiving some stick from the home support, he wasn’t the only one as Manchester City ace Jack Grealish was also feeling the heat from the crowd.
The 28-year-old didn’t feature for the Ireland senior team like his Arsenal counterpart, but he did play for the under-21s team before switching to England.
Unlike when Rice scored, Grealish celebrated in front of the away support, which would have frustrated those in the home end.
- READ MORE: Why Declan Rice switched Ireland for England in international football before Arsenal transfer
Declan Rice’s perfect international break
Arsenal need Rice to impress over the international break, given that he will miss the next match in the Premier League.
The midfielder certainly imposed himself in the first half against Ireland, despite the struggles he could’ve faced from the home crowd.
A goal and an assist early on helped set the tone and if he builds that momentum, it may see him come back with a bang for Mikel Arteta.
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