West Ham fans have to be patient with Declan Rice

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It was a tough afternoon, but fans have to back Declan Rice after yesterday’s Liverpool horror show.

The midfielder had an overwhelming opening day of the season at Anfield. As he seemed to be playing in a defensive midfield role, Rice struggled to halt any of Liverpool’s momentum.

It led to voices of frustration and discontent from Hammers fans. It’s clear to see why given how tough a day Sunday was for all West Ham supporters.

However, it’s important for these same supporters to stick by Rice and show confidence in him.

It’s worth remembering that the youngster is still relatively inexperienced at just 19 years of age. Rice was also thrown into a cauldron at Anfield against a side rip-roaring in confidence. Coming up against talent such as Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane, and Roberto Firminio was always going to be difficult to stop.

However, a half-time substitution saw Rice come off and have his misery ended.

Responsibility fell on the shoulders of Jack Wilshere and Mark Noble to perform and help Rice. Neither did, and it left the rookie with a tough afternoon.

A sense of perspective is essential, as West Ham still have a rising star on their hands in the Ireland international. Rice has come up from the Hammers youth set-up, and deserves some slack after his Liverpool display.

What’s important now is what the youngster learns from it. Similar performances against lower-level opposition won’t be forgiven.

Make no mistake, scrutinising eyes will be on him in the coming weeks. However, fans can’t get carried away and must remember that Rice is simply a young project still in development.