Jude Bellingham sends three-word message to West Ham United ace Declan Rice after England win v Italy
Jude Bellingham was wowed by Declan Rice’s performance on Thursday night as the West Ham midfielder shone in England’s win over Italy.
Rice, 24, scored his third international goal for England as they beat Italy 2-1 in Napoli in the opening game of the Euro 2024 qualifiers.
The Hammers captain took to his Instagram account after he game, saying there’s “no better feeling” than scoring for the Three Lions.
Borussia Dortmund’s Bellingham and Rice’s West Ham teammate Pablo Fornals both replying saying: “What a player.”
Mason Mount also replied, saying: “Love it, bruva.”
Incredible
What a way to silence your critics.
Rice had spoken out about Graeme Souness’ criticism prior to England’s win in Italy in Thursday night, dubbing the Liverpool legend’s verdict on him as “harsh”.
Souness questioned Rice’s ability to score goals – weirdly – but what a way to respond by going out there and scoring against the reigning European champions.
Rice isn’t a goalscorer – why would he be?
Not only midfielders have to be and Souness should know that as well as anyone because he was hardly prolific in the Liverpool midfield back in his day.
Rice hasn’t had the best of seasons – arguably the worst of his career.
However, that goal against Italy will hopefully be the shot in the arm that the Irons captain needs to help inspire a turnaround at the London Stadium with David Moyes’ side currently in the Premier League’s relegation zone.