Matthew Upson has tutored Declan Rice at West Ham.
Former West Ham United centre-back Matthew Upson has told the club’s official website that Declan Rice is an “amazing learner” after tutoring the impressive young defender in the Hammers academy.
The 19-year-old has gone from strength to strength this season, starring at the back under David Moyes in a three-man defence alongside Angelo Ogbonna and Aaron Cresswell of late.
His performance against Chelsea lead to teammate Pablo Zabaleta claiming the Ireland youth international could become a future West Ham captain, when Mark Noble eventually puts down the armband.
Upson, who played for the Hammers for four years between 2007 and 2011, claimed he is not surprised by Rice because of the versatile star’s impressive character and attitude.
“Terry [Westley, Academy Manager] asked me to be Declan’s mentor last season and we worked together quite closely for a year,” Upson said. “His progress has been rapid and one of the main reasons for that has been his attitude and character. That is what sets him apart.
“Declan is an amazing learner and that is why he has done so well. His attitude and character set him apart and he is a great example of a young player who has gone from where he was at a year ago, to being regularly involved in the first team.”
The Daily Mirror has recently claimed that Rice, who moved to West Ham after spending time in Chelsea’s youth academy, that will be offered a new contract that will see his £10,000-a-week wages more than doubled.
Rice only has a year left to run on his current contract but has clocked up 26 senior appearances in all competitions this season, and is quickly establishing himself as the Hammers’ best centre-back.
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