West Ham United: Jermaine Jenas hails ‘dynamic’ Declan Rice in England World Cup clash v Wales
Jermaine Jenas was impressed with Declan Rice after the West Ham midfielder was involved in a first-half incident in England’s World Cup clash against Wales.
The 23-year-old tackled Aaron Ramsey from behind in the seventh minute of the group-stage clash as Gareth Southgate’s team looked to stamp their authority on proceedings.
The BBC pundit praised the West Ham man’s dynamism along with the likes of Jordan Henderson and Jude Bellingham.
“Good from Declan Rice. Wales will know England are going to come after them,” said Jenas (BBC Sport commentary, 19:09, 29 November).
“They’re so dynamic with the likes of Rice, Jordan Henderson and Jude Bellingham in the middle. No doubt the objective is just to get the ball back.”
Everpresent
There was a lot made of Rice’s position in the England team ahead of the fixture, but his involvement in Southgate’s plans have never really been in doubt. He’s been instrumental for the Three Lions over a number of years and will continue to be for a considerable period of time.
Rice is still young and will continue to develop the more he features in major tournaments. With Rice continuing to star on the international stage, his stock will only rise more and more, with suitors potentially queuing up for his services.
The Guardian’s Fabrizio Romano (Caught Offside, 29 November) has revealed there is still no agreement with Rice over a potential contract extension, with the Hammers assessing the midfielder’s value.
West Ham fans will be desperate for the midfielder to commit his future to the club, but ultimately, there will be an acceptance that he is destined for bigger and better things.
The Irons need to decide whether to cash in on their star man or keep him and risk losing him for free.