Don Hutchison: Declan Rice was MOTM by million miles in England v Italy
West Ham United star Declan Rice was sensational on Monday evening despite England’s defeat to Italy.
The Three Lions agonisingly missed out on the European Championship trophy as penalties proved to be their downfall yet again.
Rice was superb throughout the tournament, but he certainly went up another level for the final game of his season.
The Hammers star was taken off during the game by Gareth Southgate, and was seen in tears as the full-time whistle went at Wembley.
We couldn’t be prouder of our main man, and it appears as though many thought the same as the night went on.
Don Hutchison was one of those, writing on his personal Twitter account that he was thrilled by the Irons midfielder.
“MOM by a million miles mate,” he said, replying to a fan.
He will bounce back.
Wow, we struggle to find words that will comfort Rice, but all we can say is that we couldn’t be prouder right now.
The midfielder has faced doubters all of his international career for the Three Lions, but they were nowhere to be seen last night.
Rice made it look easy at times, and once again, it was him and Kalvin Phillips driving the team forward – two of our most questioned starters.
Jordan Henderson, the man everyone was crying to see, came on and did very little, he didn’t even stay on to take a penalty despite his experience.
There is no blame game here, but Rice has certainly proved himself and his name on the biggest stage now, and no one can question whether he deserves to be there at all.
Enjoy your rest, Dec – you have certainly earned it, we can’t wait to see you back at the London Stadium.
In other West Ham United news, reported Irons target spotted within 10 miles of London Stadium, move reportedly all but complete
Be sure to follow West Ham Zone on Facebook and Twitter for 24/7 updates on the Hammers and more exclusive interviews with Frank McAvennie.