Jonathan Walters shares what ex-West Ham United duo James Collins and Joe Hart have told him about Declan Rice

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West Ham United youngster Declan Rice’s contract at the London Stadium is set to expire at the end of the season.

Jonathan Walters has told Sky Sports, during their live coverage of Ireland’s match against Denmark, that Declan Rice was raved about by his West Ham United teammates last season.

Rice is currently deciding his international future, with Ireland and England both options for the youngster.

And Walters is hoping that Rice picks Ireland, as his former West Ham teammates rate him so highly.

“Speaking to Joe Hart and James Collins, they said he was West Ham’s best player last season,” Walters said.

Last season Rice was only 18, so it is even more impressive that he made such an impact on his West Ham teammates.

The defensive midfielder actually struggled for game time in the early weeks of the season, but he is playing a key role for Manuel Pellegrini’s side now.

Rice has shielded West Ham’s defence well in recent weeks, with his performances earning him a lot of credit.

West Ham are currently trying to tie Rice down to a new contract, with his current deal expiring at the end of the season.