Times journalist in awe of ‘improved’ West Ham United ace Declan Rice after World Cup display v France
The Times Gregor Robertson believes Declan Rice has “improved dramatically” after the West Ham captain excelled for England against France.
Rice and England suffered heartbreak after Harry Kane missed a late penalty during the quarter-final clash, which England had dominated for large parts.
Talking on The Game Podcast, Robertson was impressed with the West Ham captain and praised his ability to read the game.
“There were a host of excellent displays, I thought Rice was brilliant, he reads the game so well and he’s improved dramatically,” said The Times journalist (The Game, 09m51s, 11 December).
Elite
If there were any questions surrounding Rice’s ability to perform with the World’s best, they were emphatically answered last night. The 23-year-old won the midfield battle against Real Madrid sensation Aurélien Tchouaméni and confirmed that simply has to play Champions League football at some point in his career.
It would be ideal if it was with West Ham but at the moment the prospect of the Hammers tasting European football looks a long way off at the moment, which makes the next two transfer windows vital when it comes to his future.
Six Foot Two (3 December) suggest the club are happy to break the bank to keep the 23-year-old at the London Stadium, with the Hammers willing to offer Rice £13million a year.
It does seem unlikely for Rice to sign a new deal, which could well lead to the club cashing in on their biggest asset in the summer window. If the price is right, the board will have a huge decision to make when it comes to their talismanic captain.