Garth Crooks has claimed on BBC Sport that it is only a matter of time before Declan Rice leaves West Ham United for a Champions League club.
The former Tottenham Hotspur forward has said that West Ham midfielder Rice is getting better with every game.
Crooks was impressed by the performance of the England international midfielder for West Ham against Everton in the Premier League this weekend.
The Hammers won 1-0 against the Toffees at Goodison Park.
Crooks wrote about Rice on BBC Sport: “If ever there was a player to take over the captaincy of West Ham from Mark Noble then Declan Rice was that player. He gets better with every game.
“He seems to cover more ground than anyone in his team and you can guarantee 100% effort every week.
“No doubt that’s precisely what David Moyes and England manager Gareth Southgate think of him. Rice showed all of those redeeming qualities against Everton.
“West Ham fans won’t like me for saying this but how long can the East London club hold onto him? This lad should be playing Champions League football. It’s only a matter of time.”
West Ham fans should not worry just yet
Rice, who can also play as a defender, is one of the best young players in the Premier League.
The 22-year-old has established himself as a key figure for West Ham and for England.
Now, of course, when you have the likes of Liverpool, Chelsea, Manchester United and Manchester City after a player, fans will be worried.
However, we do not think that West Ham fans need to be concerned right now.
Rice has not publicly expressed his desire to leave the Hammers.
West Ham are progressing as a club and are playing in the Europa League this season.
Who knows, the Hammers could even finish in the Premier League top four this season.
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