Frank McAvennie stands by West Ham in debate about Declan Rice injury with England
We’re delighted to welcome former West Ham United striker Frank McAvennie as our exclusive columnist. Each week he’ll be giving his views on the biggest talking points at the London Stadium…
Frank McAvennie understands West Ham’s frustration with England after Declan Rice suffered an injury during the last international break.
Rice, 22, injured his knee playing for England in their win against Poland on March 31 and played through the pain, possibly making it worse.
According to The Athletic, West Ham are “frustrated” with England that he wasn’t properly checked over after the World Cup qualifier win, even though he didn’t feel any pain and the injury worsened overnight.
McAvennie admits that while the annoyance was inevitable, he does suggest international managers push players when they probably shouldn’t out of selfishness.
Speaking to West Ham Zone, McAvennie said: “They’re always moaning about different things.
“It’s a shame it’s on international duty but it’s horrible for the boy, they don’t really care about the seriousness when you’re away.
“They don’t look after you as well as the club, they want you to play, that’s what they’re thinking. Sometimes they do that.
“If it’s a wee niggle, [Gareth] Southgate will just play Declan.
“I’m all for West Ham because they haven’t looked after the player. I’m a bit biased myself but that’s the way it is.”
Rice is set to miss at least four weeks with a small tear to his lateral ligament in his knee but so far, the Hammers haven’t exactly missed the midfield sensation.
David Moyes has led the Irons to successive 3-2 wins against Wolves and Leicester, meaning the London club sits in fourth place in the Premier League standings with seven games left to play.
Of course, we’d be more optimistic of our chances of finishing in the top four with a fit Rice but based on the evidence so far, West Ham are not as worse off without him than first feared.
Four goals have been leaked though in two games, which is a concern. Hopefully that will be addressed by Moyes in time for the match against Newcastle this weekend.
In other West Ham news, this Chelsea midfielder could be offered as part of a swap deal for Declan Rice.