Declan Rice arrives at England training with West Ham United carrier bags
By Azeem Siddiqui
Declan Rice’s stock has risen to a new level in the ongoing campaign because of his consistent performances for both England and West Ham United.
Rice is currently with the England squad and could earn his 28th cap against the Ivory Coast on Tuesday night [29 March].
The Times Chief Football Writer Henry Winter, in his recent article, explained why the 23-year-old is now amongst the few untouchables in the England squad.
“There’s an honesty and hunger to Rice, no surprise with Noble a guiding light close by,” he wrote.
“He’s down to earth, reporting to St George’s Park last week with his kit in West Ham carrier bags. He’s hugely popular within the squad, partly because of his humour and grounded nature and, of course, his talent.”
Fight to keep Rice
Rice has always been a player with the attributes of becoming one of the best in his position, but his quick transformation has taken a lot of people by surprise.
There is a reason why some of the big clubs in England as well as in Europe admire what they see of Rice who comes across as a level-headed individual, looking to improve at every step of the journey Winter, in his latest article, explained just that aspect of his personality.
After becoming one of the most consistent players in his position in Europe, Hammers should brace themselves for a fight to keep Rice — who is adored by the West Ham fans — at the London Stadium for the season beyond the summer of 2022.
It will not going to be easy, especially with the likes of Manchester United and other big clubs around, but West Ham faithful will be hoping that the club’s hierarchy will do whatever they can to ensure that their prized asset will not leave anytime soon.
In other West Ham news, David Moyes warns the owners ahead of the summer transfer window.
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