Flynn Downes gobsmacked by West Ham United star Declan Rice in unbelievable verdict
Flynn Downes has delivered an “unbelievable” verdict on his West Ham teammate and inspiration, Declan Rice, as shared by the official club website.
Downes was speaking at the press conference ahead of the Europa Conference League quarter-final, second leg tie against Gent which is finely poised at 1-1.
The former Ipswich player is expected to return to David Moyes’ side as the Hammers strive for a semi-final spot, as he confessed his mesmerisation for the skipper.
The 24-year-old was effusive in his praise for the club captain, further highlighting his status at the London Stadium.
“Declan is massive. He is one of the best centre-midfielders in the world,” he said.
“To play alongside him and to learn from him is a blessing and it’s unbelievable.”
Seize the opportunity
Downes got just under 75 minutes on the pitch in Belgium last week, whilst he was a late substitution in Sunday’s credible draw with Arsenal.
Most of his exposure, in his first season with the Hammers, has come in Europe as he touched on in front of the assembled press. He stated that the experience has been valuable.
As a fan of the club, the former Ipswich player is well aware of the expectation and the feeling around this encounter, with a place in the last four within touching distance.
He admitted that “it does mean a lot more” due to his background but the most important thing is that Downes and his teammates harness the energy of the crowd, to push for progression.
Some changes will be made to the team, in the balancing act of competing priorities for West Ham, but this is an occasion for Downes, Rice, and the rest to seize the opportunity.
In other West Ham news, this Hammers ace has been in action at Rush Green after Arsenal absence.