Frank McAvennie warns West Ham star Declan Rice amid Leonardo Bonucci interview
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 implored Declan Rice to focus his attention on the field after the West Ham star’s summer comments were slammed by Leonardo Bonucci.
Rice, 22, was an instrumental force in the England midfield as they marched to the final of the European Championship at Wembley, where they came unstuck against Italy on penalties.
Juventus veteran defender Bonucci gave an interview to The Athletic earlier this week [29/09/21] where he spoke of the “anger” inside the Italian players at perceived arrogance in the England camp.
He said: “Hearing that song [Three Lions] on repeat and the comment from Declan Rice saying England were 10 times more motivated to win than us… well, they’re the kind of mistakes young players make. You don’t say that. You should never say you want something more than somebody else or you’re better than somebody else.”
Ex-Irons attacker McAvennie believes it was a moment of naivety from Rice.
“Declan’s only young, senior players will tell you that you don’t do your talking in the paper, you do your talking on the pitch,” McAvennie told West Ham Zone.
“When you’ve got pressure on you, just go and do it, that’s what the fans want.
“Declan made a statement but that’s confidence.
“I get what Declan was saying but you say that to your teammates, don’t say that to the press.
“Every player should feel that way but you don’t say it. I think that’s what Bonucci was saying and you don’t get anyone more experienced than Bonucci.
“At least he knows who Declan is, that’s a good thing!”
In other West Ham news, Simon Jordan has taken a swipe at GSB detractors in a money claim on this Irons ace.
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