'Snakes are back': Ireland fans target former players Rice, Grealish

DUBLIN (AP) — England gamers Declan Rice and Jack Grealish have been focused by protesting Eire followers in the course of the UEFA Nations League match on Saturday.

Each former Eire gamers responded to the jeers in good trend with targets in a 2-0 win at Aviva Stadium.

One banner had photos of Rice and Grealish alongside the phrases, “The snakes are again.”

Rice opened the scoring within the eleventh minute however did not rejoice.

Grealish added the second within the twenty sixth and did rejoice, however later mentioned he had “nothing unhealthy to say” about Eire followers.

“We each loved our time taking part in right here. I definitely did,” Grealish mentioned. “I’ve numerous Irish in my household, so there is no unhealthy blood by any means from my facet.”

Rice made three appearances for Eire earlier than opting to signify England, the place he has grow to be a key determine within the group as among the finest midfielders in Europe.

Grealish, who turned a British file signing when becoming a member of Manchester Metropolis for 100 million kilos ($139 million) in 2021, performed for Eire at youth stage after which selected to pursue a profession with England.

Each gamers have been born in England however eligible to signify Eire.

England interim supervisor Lee Carsley additionally represented Eire as a participant when he made 40 appearances for the senior group. He was additionally born in England.

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AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer