Zabaleta and Rice combined superbly for West Ham against Chelsea.
West Ham United defender Pablo Zabaleta has told the club’s official website that he believes Declan Rice is a future captain of the Hammers after his commanding display against Chelsea.
The 19-year-old was almost faultless against the Premier League champions on Sunday as the Hammers held out for a crucial point, in which Argentine Zabaleta also impressed in a five-man defence.
Rice did not look out of place when defending against the likes of Eden Hazard, Willian, Olivier Giroud and Alvaro Morata, as Javier Hernandez’s second-half equaliser secured a point for the east Londoners.
Former Manchester City defender Zabaleta spoke after Sunday’s 1-1 draw, claiming Rice could be a future West Ham captain.
“I thought defensively we were solid today,” Zabaleta said. “It’s fantastic to see Dec playing at that level. He’s only 19, I can’t believe that. He looks very mature and he’s improving game after game.
“I love when I see young players from the academy coming through, I like to have him next to me because he’s young and he’s got that energy to play. I hope I can help him and teach him how to defend.
“This guy has a great future at this club. He could be a future captain at West Ham, I’m sure about this – very pleased for him.”
Rice broke into the Hammers side under Slaven Bilic at the start of the season and has continued his excellent form under the guidance of David Moyes, playing a crucial part in the Hammers fight against relegation.
With 26 senior appearances under his belt, the Ireland youth international is expected to start against Stoke City next Monday in what will be a crucial clash in the bottom third of the table.
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