West Ham midfielder Declan Rice has declared his love for the club and its fans despite ongoing speculation about his future.
The 19-year-old has established himself as a regular fixture in the Hammers’ side this season, and is set to bring up his half century of appearances against Watford on Saturday afternoon.
Speaking to Soccer Saturday (Saturday December 22nd, 12pm), the midfielder said: “I signed for the club when I was 14 and I’ve come through the academy.
“I’ve played in every age group since I’ve arrived, obviously captained the U23s last year.
“Saturday will be my 50th game against Watford, 50 games at 19 for West Ham.
“Yeah I do love it and I think it’s because of the connection you’ve got with the fans as well, it’s such a special fanbase and really do like West Ham, it’s the club closest to my heart.”
OPINION
West Ham must do everything they can to secure Declan Rice on a long term deal. Their reluctance to offer him the terms that he wants, and that he arguably deserves, is understandable in the sense that he is young and has a lot to learn, but realistically it is not unreasonable to suggest that the young midfielder could go on to become a club legend, and to lose him so early in what promises to be a bright career would be a huge mistake. Clearly the Hammers should not be held to ransom, but at this stage Rice has earned the right to be viewed as professional as opposed to a prospect, and he should be treated as such. The Irons are flying at the moment, and Manuel Pellegrini could take them a long way this season, but if Rice is allowed to leave there could well be a minor mutiny. At the very least it will be a reassurance to hear his declaration of love for his boyhood club, now they just need to prove its reciprocated.