Declan Rice ruled out as next England captain by ex-star

Declan Rice will not be England’s next captain, according to former Three Lions defender Harlee Dean. The West Ham midfielder has been tipped as a future leader, but Dean believes Jude Bellingham is the obvious choice to succeed Harry Kane.

Why Harlee Dean backs Bellingham over Rice

Dean, who captained Rice during his breakthrough season at Birmingham City, praised the midfielder’s leadership but insisted Bellingham’s authority makes him the better fit. 'He's playing chest out, he's not hiding from anything,' Dean said. 'I don’t think he’d be too hung up on becoming captain-he’s just dragging the team along with him.'

What this means for Rice’s England role

Despite missing out on the armband, Rice remains a key figure for England. Dean noted that Rice’s influence is undeniable, even without the captaincy. 'He’s making people around him better,' he added. 'In two or three years, when Kane retires, it’ll naturally go to Jude.'

When could the captaincy change happen?

Kane, 31, is nearing the end of his international career, and England manager Gareth Southgate will soon face a leadership transition. While Rice’s maturity and experience make him a strong candidate, Dean’s endorsement of Bellingham suggests the Real Madrid star is the frontrunner.