Another West Ham United youngster could prove his worth against the Gunners but he will be hoping for a different long-term outcome.
With West Ham United’s Mark Noble doubtful for their upcoming EFL Cup quarter-final clash with Arsenal, manager David Moyes could turn to talented teenager Declan Rice, who replaced the Hammers skipper when he left the field against Stoke City last weekend.
And one wonders if the exciting 18-year-old can have a similar impact against Arsene Wenger’s side as Reece Oxford did on his senior debut back in 2015.
Then only 16, Oxford was simply sensational as West Ham defeated Arsenal and a new star was seemingly born. Unfortunately, the centre-back-cum-midfielder has barely featured in recent times and his future is in some doubt following a loan move to Germany and talk of a permanent switch next month.
When Oxford burst onto the scene against Arsenal, it was a message to those who thought throwing a 16-year-old in against some of the Premier League’s best players was footballing suicide. Now it could be Rice’s turn to prove his worth, while no doubt hoping for a different long-term outcome.
At 18, and with some fine showings for West Ham already under his belt, Rice is not the unproven prospect Oxford was on that famous August afternoon. Yet if he does start against the Gunners, it will be his biggest challenge to date, not necessarily in terms of opposition but with a cup semi-final the prize for the winners.
Rice is equally comfortable in defence or midfield and it is in the latter position where he is more likely to start with Noble seemingly side-lined.
Both sides will be desperate to reach the last four of the competition yet a fine performance from Rice could tip the balance in West Ham’s favour, while also announcing yet another young star in the making.
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