Frank McAvennie thrilled with Declan Rice return in West Ham win v Newcastle
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 has expressed his admiration for the way West Ham midfielder Declan Rice played against Newcastle United last weekend after his summer exertions.
The 22-year-old was a late arrival to pre-season training after helping England reach the final of Euro 2020 in July, and he took the opportunity to sail into the sunset and enjoy a well-earned break.
He posted a series of photos of his holiday on his personal Instagram profile, including ones with international teammates Luke Shaw and Mason Mount.
Speaking exclusively to West Ham Zone, ex-Irons forward McAvennie has hailed Rice’s return to Premier League action after the 4-2 win on Tyneside last Sunday.
“These boys only need a few weeks now,” he said. “I saw his [social media] post[s], he was out on a boat, taking his family or friends away and getting ready.
“It’s great that he can go somewhere where he’s not going to get bothered. He’s obviously come back refreshed, full of energy and life, and it showed.
“Rice, [Tomas] Soucek and [Vladimir] Coufal all came straight back into the team and it was like they just continued. I thought they looked fresh and healthy, it looked like last season hadn’t finished and long may it continue.”
West Ham Zone View
Rice is a Rolls-Royce of a player – nothing seems to affect him. He just picked up from where he left off last week.
There were worries that he may not be in peak condition to start the season given his summer commitments.
He endured some torrid moments in the first half against the lively Allan Saint-Maximin at St James Park, but he recovered to put in a sterling second half shift against the Magpies to help drive the Irons to an opening day win.
In other West Ham news, a Sky Sports pundit has admitted shock over a £25m Irons report amid major Premier League development.
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