England boss Gareth Southgate says talks have taken place with Declan Rice over a potential international future but insists no promises have been made.

Rice was born in London but he is eligible to represent the Republic of Ireland and has already won three senior caps.

However, he has yet make a competitive appearance for Ireland and still has the option to switch allegiances and play for England, who can be backed at 9.00 to win Euro 2020.

Southgate has already called up plenty of youngsters during his time in charge of the Three Lions and Rice has been suggested as a future international.

Ireland boss Martin O’Neill decided against calling Rice up to his latest squad after admitting he wanted to allow Rice time to consider his options.

England take on Spain in the UEFA Nations League next week before facing Switzerland in a friendly as Southgate looks to continue building momentum from the World Cup.

He admits he has spoken with Rice about his current situation but insists no assurances were given about a future call-up.

Southgate said: “I think it’s fair to say I have spoken with him but I have not promised anything because I don’t think that’s right.

“It would be easy whether you are with club or national association to promise people things but I can’t promise players who were with us at the World Cup that they will be involved in six months’ time.

“So why would I promise that to a young player? I think that would be unethical. It’s a very difficult situation and I can understand the debate on all sides.

“The landscape is very complicated. The way the world is families are quite transient and nearly every player in Under-15s and Under-16s are dual nationality. This is something all countries are aware of.”