West Ham United’s Declan Rice played regularly at centre-back last season.
If West Ham United do sign Craig Dawson, then Manuel Pellegrini needs to ensure that he is playing Declan Rice in defensive midfield next season.
Pellegrini has been actively strengthening West Ham’s defence this summer, with Issa Diop already arriving.
The Hammers are also keen to add another centre-back, with Dawson heavily linked in the Daily Mail.
And if West Ham are so intent on bringing in more centre-backs, then Pellegrini would be wise to use Rice in midfield.
Rice played regularly for the Hammers last term, and looked at home in the heart of their defence.
The Republic of Ireland international looks to be West Ham’s brightest prospect, but Pellegrini is in danger of putting too many obstacles in his path.
Diop and Angelo Ogbonna look likely to be West Ham’s first choice centre-back pairing, and Dawson’s arrival at the London Stadium could make Rice’s game-time even more limited next term.
Rice has shown that he is capable of playing in midfield for his national team though.
And Pellegrini would be wise to consider using the youngster in a more advanced role, rather than simply consigning him to the bench, as he is too good not to be involved next season.
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