Jamie Carragher has praised West Ham midfielder Declan Rice following his recent performances for club and country.

The Sky Sports pundit says there is more to the 21-year-old’s game than simply playing the holding midfield role and he has singled out his ability to make forward runs and contribute to the Hammers’ attacking play:

“I’ve been really impressed with Rice in his last few performances for West Ham and also England. He doesn’t see himself as just a defensive midfield player and has been making some marauding runs forward. I’ve been really impressed.”

Rice was certainly at the top of his game in the 3-3 draw against Tottenham at the weekend and supporters will be delighted that the club did not receive any offers from the likes of Chelsea before the transfer window closed.

Despite his young age, he has now captained the side in the last four Premier League games, due to the absence of Mark Noble, and he is playing with a maturity beyond his years. West Ham fans will be keeping their fingers crossed that they can keep hold of their talisman for a while longer yet.

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