Sky Sports pundit Beckford moots Declan Rice role change in West Ham v Lyon
Jermaine Beckford believes West Ham ace Declan Rice could play in defence or even in an advanced role in the quarter-final against Lyon.
The Hammers take on the Ligue 1 side knowing that a draw will not be good enough to progress.
With the score at 1-1, it’s a winner take all game in France and the Sky Sports pundit can see David Moyes coming up with something from the left field for this one.
Speaking on the Kelly and Wrighty Show, Beckford said, “They can play one of their younger players in midfield and let Rice run around. A left field suggestion, but he could also play in defence with Zouma out. I can see that.”
Weird one
Rice hasn’t played in defence for a while so it’s surprising why Beckford would suggest it.
It’s not even a dead rubber game that David Moyes could look to experiment such a big change.
It’s undoubtedly the biggest game of the season for the Hammers and arguably the biggest one since he’s been in charge of the club.
Rice is his best player and that’s when he’s being deployed in midfield.
We do not see a younger midfielder come in either, as there aren’t any options to play there.
Alex Kral hasn’t really set the world alight while Conor Coventry is out on loan, leaving them short on options.
Hopefully, Moyes does not try to be too clever for this one and sticks with the system he knows will win them the game.
In other West Ham news, the Hammers have scouted a £20m-rated ‘Dangerous’ British striker and want to seal a permanent move this summer.
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.