His decision has obviously caused some anger in Ireland, with some people even suggesting a rule change. Rice isn’t the first player to switch national teams after playing friendlies for one country. Wilfred Zaha played for England in friendly matches against Scotland and Sweden before choosing to represent Cote d’Ivoire. Some pundits have said that the ‘loophole’ allowing players to play friendly matches for one nation before switching allegiances to another nation should be scrapped. Friendly matches could become even more devalued, and soccer federations could pressure young players to play in them so that countries can stockpile talent.

Source: Forbes February 17, 2019 12:45 UTC