Speaking on the latest edition of the U Irons podcast, Sam Delaney has been discussing just how highly he rates Declan Rice to other players in world football.
The 22-year-old played the full 90 minutes of England’s 2-0 victory over Albania on Sunday and received the Player of the Match award following the game.
The midfielder’s excellent season has gained him the attention of clubs like Chelsea and Manchester United in the transfer windows – albeit Chelsea’s interest has reportedly lowered since Frank Lampard’s departure.
Discussing the £60k-per-week star, Delaney admitted he feels Rice is one of the top players in his position in world football.
He said: “You get all these silly things about ‘Declan Rice is brilliant, he should be in England team’; ‘Declan Rice is much better than Kalvin Phillips or Jordan Henderson’ – all that. Yeah, I believe that to be true. I don’t think that I believe that because of my West Ham bias.
“I think that I’ve watched enough football to know that Declan Rice is the best player in his position, certainly in England. One of the best in the world.”
Should West Ham cash in on Rice this summer?
Yes
No
Rice has played a huge role in the Premier League for West Ham having played every single minute of league action for David Moyes’ side so far in the 2020/21 campaign (via Transfermarkt).
West Ham are still chasing their dreams of a place in next season’s Champions League with fourth-placed Chelsea just two points adrift and nine games remaining until the conclusion of the season (via Premier League).
TIF Thoughts on Delaney’s comments…
Rice has been hugely impressive this season. He has certainly played a significant role in the success of the football club this season which can be seen through the 2,610 minutes the 22-year-old has played in the league alone this campaign.
Rice certainly deserves a lot of plaudits this season for his performances for the Hammers and they seem to have been recognised by Gareth Southgate through being selected for the senior team.
The impressive performances shown by Rice this season has reportedly sparked interest from Manchester United ahead of this summer’s transfer window, however, it is also said West Ham will hold out for a huge transfer fee if they are to allow their young midfielder to leave.
In other news: ‘Will frustrate and annoy West Ham fans’ – TalkSport pundit drops Declan Rice claim