Delighted Declan Rice says he was 'speechless' when he found out he was going to captain England.

Rice has been given the prestigious honour for Tuesday evening's clash against Belgium at Wembley - and that he gave boss Gareth Southgate a hug.

Arsenal's record £105m midfielder was speaking on Monday afternoon ahead of the friendly clash at the national stadium and admitted he has "grown so much as a player" since first coming into the group at 19 ahead of winning his 50th cap.

"Fifty caps, it is a pinch me moment, it will be an honour," said Rice, adding: "On my 50th cap, to walk out at Wembley in front of my family and friends, it is a great honour, I’m a bit speechless.”

The England midfielder has already playing 45 games this term for club and country and was quizzed as to whether he fears burn out: "Not at all, I absolutely love it to be honest with you. With West Ham I played a lot, got used to European nights and three games a week.

"I love putting on the shirt, whether it's for England and Arsenal. I want to look and see at the end of my career and hopefully have won trophies.

"I've been playing consistently well throughout the season. My position has changed a lot this season from when I was at West Ham and it is closer to what Southgate wants here at England."

During the press conference Rice spoke about how he is comfortable playing as both a '6' and an '8' - but he thinks playing in the deeper role is his best position.

Three Lions boss Southgate was full of praise for Rice, recalling his development and insisting he was a leader since he first met him.

Southgate said: "Declan is here, it's his 50th cap.

"He has great leadership and experience already at a younger age.

"It's a great opportunity for younger players to show leadership.

"Different feel about the group, different dynamic.

"A lot of the players with the squad now are the future for the mid and long term."