“The staff, players and I are absolutely delighted with this hugely positive news,” McCann said. “We all have an immense sense of pride in Fin earning his spot in Steve's squad off the back of his time with us. “He deserves this recognition for the levels he's shown while on loan here. It's also a feather in the cap of the football club, and highlights what we can do for players at Killie, no matter the stage of their development. “Fin has been a breath of fresh air to work with, and we wish him nothing but the best with Scotland this summer.”
Aston Villa, alongside European semi-finalists Nottingham Forest and Crystal Palace, are pushing to sign the Scottish teenager as a free agent. Multiple English clubs have already entered formal discussions with Rice's representatives, presenting detailed pathways designed to accelerate his transition into senior first-team football.