West Ham United star Declan Rice has been thrust back into the spotlight again this week.
The West Ham midfield enforcer is with the England team ahead of Euro 2020 qualifiers against Bulgaria and Kosovo.
But it has been Rice’s summer links to Manchester United that have been making the headlines.
Rice was interviewed by FourFourTwo and was his usual honest, heart-on-the-sleeve self.
Don’t get me wrong, I think I’ve got the ability to play for a club like that. But it’s all about the timing and I don’t think the timing is right for me at all. I’ve still got so much to learn.
Bold? No just a realist
The Sun described Rice’s comments that he believes he has the ability to play for Manchester United as ‘bold’.
In reality the West Ham hero would walk into the Red Devils side. Of course Manchester United are one of the world’s biggest clubs. But they are a million miles from challenging the likes of Manchester City and Liverpool.
So in fact it could be argued Rice should be aiming higher if he ever does decide to leave West Ham.
But it seems his comments have also hit a nerve with some West Ham fans.
Judging by the reaction on social media, a section of Hammers supporters are disappointed he was discussing the possibility of a move at all.
Some West Ham fans left upset by Rice comments
That is despite the 20-year-old reassuring supporters in the same interview that he values the prospect of a long West Ham career and legend status at the club just as highly as any thoughts of a move away.
I’m loving it at West Ham, the connection between me and the supporters is special. I’ve become one of the fans’ favourites and the manager likes me. It’s the best play for me to play football. I’ve signed a contract here for the next few years and I’m looking forward to playing this season and the season beyond, so we’ll just see where it goes. To be called a West Ham legend in the future, maybe, would be a real honour.
In light of those comments you have to say to those fans questioning Rice’s loyalty and commitment ‘What is the big deal’?
Here is one of the finest young players in Europe, performing brilliantly in one of the most important positions on the pitch. Totally dedicated to and smitten with West Ham – the club he adores for believing in him when Chelsea didn’t – and the club’s first genuine England international for many years.
What’s the big deal?
Rice should be applauded for his self-belief. After all it is what got him to where he is today.
And anyone questioning his commitment only needs to watch him play in the claret and blue for a few minutes to dismiss any irrational fears.
At the end of the day Rice may well move on in the future. If he does it will be because West Ham’s owners receive an offer they feel they can’t refuse. And every player has their price.
And if that day comes West Ham will be suitably recompensed and the onus will be on producing or discovering the next Declan Rice.
But for goodness sake let’s enjoy him while he is here and not feed into the predictable transfer gossip churn.
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