Frank Lampard praises West Ham star Declan Rice for Euro 2020 contribution
Frank Lampard has hailed the key contribution of West Ham midfielder Declan Rice to the England national team at Euro 2020.
Rice has been an ever-present in the England starting XI for their five tournament matches so far, including Saturday night’s 4-0 triumph over Ukraine that sent them into the semi-finals.
Speaking on BBC One [03/07/21] before the game, former Irons midfielder Lampard praised the role of Rice during The Three Lions’ march to the latter stages of the championship.
Picking out some clips from an earlier game against Croatia, the ex-Chelsea manager exclaimed: “I love Declan Rice there, he’s covering for [Kieran] Trippier, the rest of the team they’re behind going ‘okay, are we sound?’
“The most dangerous times sometimes are if you turn the ball over in areas, but now we’re ready.
“There are enough players to create chances and we’re very strong behind with the likes of Rice.”
Key component
Lampard has made no secret of his admiration for Rice, and if he was still in charge at Stamford Bridge there’s no doubt he would have made further attempts to prise the 22-year-old from our clutches this summer.
The Irons midfielder has long been touted as a target for the club that released him as a 14-year-old, after several impressive seasons in east London.
However, despite recent speculation surrounding his contract, there is an expectation that we can keep hold of him for at least one more year.
Our sixth-place Premier League finish and subsequent qualification for the Europa League has surely made his mind up to prolong his stay at the London Stadium, but inevitably there may be a time where his ambitions outgrow the club.
But, for now, we will revel in his talents with the knowledge that one of our own is helping to lead England’s charge to European glory this summer, and it’s a source of pride for all Hammers.
In other West Ham news, Ashley Cole reacts as Irons star slammed by ITV pundit live on-air amid ‘Unbelievable’ moment.
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