Declan Rice reacts to massive support from England fans ahead of Euros final

West Ham United star Declan Rice is set to play a huge role when England take on Italy in Sunday’s European Championship final.

The Hammers midfielder has started every game for the Three Lions so far at the tournament, and is expected to retain his berth against Roberto Mancini’s side.

Rice and his teammates were sent off to the finals by a huge crowd at St. George’s Park on Saturday, and the 22-year-old was blown away, taking to his personal Twitter account to react thus: “This support drives us on,” he wrote.

Massive send-off

England fans are absolutely buzzing ahead of tomorrow’s clash, and Rice has all of our support.

He will be making history with club and country should Gareth Southgate’s side secure victory at the expense of the Italians, and he definitely deserves to be on the winning side.

Rice had an impressive campaign with West Ham, leading them to Europe and he is having another impressive one with England, with 90 minutes between the country and a first piece of silverware since 1966.

He has formed a solid partnership with Leeds United’s Kalvin Phillips in the middle of the park, and whichever side wins the game has to win the midfield battle first.

West Ham

Italy have the excellent Marco Verratti and Jorginho to rely on for victory, and Rice and Phillips have to be on top of their game if England are to come out on top.

Admittedly, winning the Euros could harm our chances of holding on to the midfielder for long, with scouts from European bigwigs most likely to have been impressed with his performances at the tournament.

Nevertheless, we are very proud of Rice regardless of whatever happens at Wembley tomorrow.

In other West Ham news, Fabrizio Romano has delivered Hammers-Rice Friday night update amid ‘Open’ situation.

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.