West Ham set to start Declan Rice v Sevilla as journo shares whispers
Declan Rice appears set to start for West Ham tonight as they take on Sevilla in the Europa League, according to journalist Dean Jones via Give Me Sport.
The 23-year-old missed the Irons’ 1-0 defeat away at Anfield on Saturday through illness and his availability for tonight’s game has been left unknown for much of this week.
It appears to be good news for Hammers fans though as he travelled with the squad to Seville yesterday and Jones has shared what he has been told about the prospects of him playing in the first leg.
“I’m told he will start the game,” Jones said which will be music to the ears of everyone associated with West Ham.
It’s not all good news for David Moyes though as Jarrod Bowen misses the game through an injury he sustained at Anfield on Saturday.
Massive news
Rice is absolutely critical to West Ham’s balance alongside Czech international Tomas Soucek.
As the club’s vice-captain, the 23-year-old is often leaned upon to lead by example on the pitch and he has thrived in the role all season long.
His absence was badly felt against Liverpool as the Reds; midfield swarmed around stand-in Manuel Lanzini and dominated proceedings for the most part.
But the England international is back and his return to the team will give everyone a huge boost of reassurance including Moyes who can relax knowing his trusty midfield duo are together again.
Rice’s return won’t guarantee an easy ride for the Irons though as Sevilla have a very impressive Europa League record with six trophies in their cabinet.
As long as the Hammers are still in the tie come full-time tonight, then they can head back to London content at the very least.
In other West Ham news, the Hammers are interested in signing a “sensational” player who is out of favour at his current club.
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