West Ham news: Expert issues ‘incredible’ Declan Rice verdict after ‘huge’ manager reveal
Kevin Campbell has backed West Ham star Declan Rice to become captain of Gareth Southgate’s England side.
The former Arsenal striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted the 23-year-old has “kicked on to an incredible level” this term despite European Championship heartbreak last summer (2021).
As quoted by the Mirror (27 March), Southgate suggested Rice has ” all the attributes to be a captain” and praised his “huge” impact during friendlies against Switzerland and Ivory Coast.
Rice has worn the armband during each of his 29 Premier League outings for West Ham this season.
The midfield star, contracted until 2024, has been slapped with a £150million price tag by manager David Moyes.
Campbell suggested Rice will develop as a captain “more and more” in the coming seasons.
“He leads by example with the way he plays the game, both for club and country,” he told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury.
“He’s improving every game – in fact, I think he’s England’s most improved player over the past year or so.
“Rice was one of England’s best players at the Euros – but him and Bukayo Saka have actually kicked on and found an even higher gear this season.
“There aren’t many who have, but those two have kicked on to an incredible level.
“I definitely see captain material in Rice because he’s been such an outstanding leader for West Ham – and he’ll grow into that role more and more.
“But wow, what a player.”
Rice has notched 29 England caps since making his debut in March 2019.
His West Ham side sit sixth in the Premier League following their 2-1 win over Everton yesterday (3 April).
In other news, pundit predicts West Ham could swoop for Liverpool star after defender exit report.