West Ham face one of the biggest challenges of their season in midweek as they prepare to travel to The Etihad to face high-flying Manchester City.
Still jubilant from their Carabao Cup victory over Chelsea, Man City will turn their attention to the league again.
The Citizens were knocked off top spot at the weekend as Liverpool drew 0-0 with Manchester United.
But with just one point separating the two sides, Manchester City cannot afford any more slip-ups and will be eager to dispatch West Ham.
Manuel Pellegrini’s men will be hoping to cause an upset on Wednesday night but it is a big night for one man in particular.
Declan Rice has the chance to showcase his ability on the biggest stage as Pep Guardiola scouts him firsthand.
Manchester City chase Declan Rice
Guardiola is a big fan of Rice and wants to launch a bid worth at least £70m for the 20-year-old starlet, according to The Sun.
Rice is seen as the perfect heir to Fernandinho’s throne as the veteran Brazilian nears the end of his career.
Guardiola has watched Rice in action for West Ham and is impressed by the youngster’s composure on the ball and protection for the back four.
Man City are ready to raid the Hammers for their prize asset in the summer, even though he recently signed a new long-term contract in East London.
Declan Rice: the midfield battle
Rice will get a chance to show how well he can cope with the threat posed by a dangerous Man City midfield on Wednesday.
The likes of David Silva, Kevin De Bruyne, Bernardo Silva, Leroy Sane, Raheem Sterling and Riyad Mahrez will make life very tough for West Ham.
The Irons need the London-born midfielder to be at his best if they have any chance of sneaking a result at The Etihad Stadium.
But while Guardiola will be watching Rice eagerly, he will not be able to compare him directly to Fernandinho, who is likely to miss this clash with an injury.
Receive a digest of our best West Ham content each week direct to your mailbox
