Danny Murphy says West Ham still in the FA Cup because of Declan Rice
Danny Murphy believes Declan Rice is the reason why West Ham are still in the FA Cup after his brilliant performance against Kidderminster.
Rice came on as a half-time substitute with the Hammers 1-0 down to sixth-tier Kidderminster, and scored a 91st minute equaliser to take the game to extra-time where they eventually won the game.
The 23-year-old was brilliant throughout his appearance and Danny Murphy told BBC Match of the Day that he was the reason that David Moyes’ side are in the next round.
“It was crying out for him [Rice], they missed him and Soucek. He started them both on the bench but Declan came on and showed his presence alone.
“His assertiveness on the ball, the way he carried the ball forward, trying to make things happen, didn’t mind making mistakes. It didn’t all come off for him, but everything West Ham did positively in the second half was because of him.
“I think this is a role over the next couple of years we’re going to see him grow into.
“More of an 8 than a 6, somebody who can surge forward, use his athleticism, use his quick feet. I think he’s more skilful and technically gifted than people give him credit for. Breezing past people.
“With this type of quality, it would be a waste to see someone of this quality playing in a holding role when he has these types of attributes. What a finish.
“If it wasn’t for Declan Rice, West Ham would be out of the cup.”
Indispensable
There’s a reason why West Ham are refusing to budge on their nine-figure valuation of their vice-captain, and it’s because he’s simply irreplaceable to them.
Everything he does for the team is a positive and without him, they really looked lost in midfield despite the minnow nature of their opposition.
It’s a big problem that they are seemingly unable to to deal with right now but it’s something that must be addressed.
As for the belief that he will become a more attack-minded player, there are signs that he is doing that already and he has previously spoken about his wish to do so.
There are still improvements to make in his game if that’s what he wants long-term but he is already among the best in the league at what he does. West Ham owe him a lot more than just their place in the next round.
In other West Ham news, ‘Shocking’ – West Ham ace slaughtered by journo for performance v Kidderminster