Can West Ham defender Declan Rice benefit from the latest Winston Reid injury news?
West Ham United manager Manuel Pellegrini has several options at centre-back going into next season and it will be intriguing to see who he opts with in the starting XI.
The Hammers used a back three for large spells in the last campaign and it is unclear whether or not the new boss will stick to that.
West Ham have been dealt an injury blow at the back, as powerhouse defender Winston Reid will be sidelined for at least three months, it has been confirmed.
That will open the door for his rivals and players will hope to make a lasting impression on Pellegrini to cement their places in the side.
One rising star that should be ready to force his way into the team is Declan Rice, who proved he is a major talent when he played in the first-team last season.
He can definitely take over from Reid in terms of being a consistent figure in the defence over time and Pellegrini could be the perfect mentor to get the best out of him.
Issa Diop and Angelo Ogbonna are alternative centre-back options for the West Ham manager to consider, but he will have surely been well informed about academy graduate Rice.
The Irishman just needs to make the most of his opportunities in the first-team and ensure he does not let go of his shirt if he gets it.
Meanwhile, Reid’s bad luck with injuries continues and it is easy to speculate about if the 30-year-old will be able to get back to his best at West Ham.
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