Declan Rice: Pundit can’t believe what he’s just seen from West Ham star
Alan Hutton has insisted Declan Rice has proven to be the complete midfielder after his recent performances for West Ham.
The former Scotland defender, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, admitted he has been blown away by the 23-year-old’s “pace” and dribbling ability this season.
Rice’s made a game-changing impact with his running on Saturday (5 February) as he scored an injury-time winner against Kidderminster Harriers.
The midfielder then returned to the starting XI for Tuesday’s (8 February) 1-0 win over Watford.
Hutton hailed the England international’s impact and admitted he has seen a different side to Rice this season.
Hutton told Football Insider’s Russell Edge: “There’s no doubting his talent. Against Kidderminster, West Ham were really struggling.
“Him coming on just changed the whole outcome of the game, the way he drives forward.
“I’m seeing something different in him. He’s not just a defensive midfielder, he actually drives forward with purpose. Also, he’s really quick, a lot quicker than what I thought.
“He can dribble by people, he can see a pass and he actually can do a lot more than just be a defensive midfielder.
“I wouldn’t say it surprises me but I didn’t realise he had that, especially the pace aspect.
“There have been few times I’ve seen him sprint down the line with the ball and get past people with ease. I didn’t realise he was capable of that.
“Not just that, he’s very good on his feet. He can move the ball side to side and chop by somebody.“
Rice’s goal against Kidderminster was his fourth of the campaign.
He also has four assists under his belt across all competitions.
In other news, pundit claims “80-year-olds can turn quicker” than West Ham star.