David Moyes has demanded West Ham fans give Declan Rice a good reception on his return with Arsenal but makes an admission.
West Ham welcome Arsenal to the London Stadium in the Premier League on Sunday.
It’s a massive game for West Ham’s top six hopes and Arsenal’s title chances.
But it is also the part three of the Declan Rice derby.
The Hammers have fared well against the Gunners since their former captain’s defection to north London.
David Moyes’ side beat Arsenal 3-1 in the league cup back in November and a month later won 2-0 in the at the Emirates in the Premier League.
Much of the focus, particularly around the cup game at the London Stadium, was around the welcome Rice would get from Hammers supporters.
No doubt the Rice reception police will be out in force in east London this weekend.
Moyes has demanded West Ham fans give Rice a good reception on his return with Arsenal but makes an admission.
Speaking ahead of the clash, Moyes told fans their former skipper deserves nothing but a warm welcome.
But he also stated that sentiment can go out of the window with a passionate full house of West Ham fans wanting to see their team beat a London rival.
“He should be welcomed incredibly well,” Moyes said when asked what kind of reception Rice will get from Hammers supporters.
“He was a great player for us, we all miss him. He’s a great boy, a top professional and we certainly miss him so I would hope he’d be welcomed.
“But obviously I’ve got a support who want us to win. And a manager who hopes Declan doesn’t play well – or doesn’t play.”
Some West Ham fans were – and remain – angry with their former beloved captain for pushing to join Arsenal.
And the move has created a rivalry of sorts between two clubs who have never really shared one. Thanks in the main to a mutual dislike of another team from north London.
But Rice has showed pure class after it was revealed he has been in contact with West Ham ahead of his return.
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