West Ham manager David Moyes expressed his delight about Declan Rice’s form after picking up a valuable point against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.
The Republic of Ireland international, who made his debut for the Boys in Green last month, impressed at the heart of the Hammers defence against the reigning Premier League champions.
Rice displayed his ability to play in midfield for Ireland against Turkey and has been earmarked as a potential successor for Roy Keane in the international setup.
And Hammers boss Moyes agreed Rice was making himself hard to leave out of the current starting XI.
“I hope that’s the case – the case for everybody,” Moyes told Off The Ball’s David McIntyre.
“When we came in, we asked everybody to show us what you can do. I think the big thing in Deco’s [Declan’s] game is not to be causing any goals; not being at fault.
“And I think in these last two games he’s showed that. He’ll mature with games –he’ll get better. To be a 19-year-old in the Premier League now is very difficult.
“Look at the quality of players you have to play against. We’re really pleased with him and I hope he keeps his form up."
West Ham’s draw at Stamford Bridge leaves the Hammers six points clear of the relegation places with six games to play.
Written by James Hopper
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