Hartson Praises West Ham Star For “Running The Show” Despite Arsenal Defeat

West Ham midfielder Declan Rice captained the side in the absence of the injured Mark Noble in the 2-1 defeat to Arsenal last night and he was singled out for praise by John Hartson.

The former Hammers and Gunners forward felt that the 21-year-old was dictating the game in the middle of the park for the away side:

Rice continues to be linked with a switch to Chelsea but his performance last night demonstrates how vital he is to David Moyes’ side. The Blues are reportedly lining up a bid for the England international before the transfer deadline next month but they are unlikely to match the player’s £75m price tag.

Despite his young age, Rice is now seen as one of the leaders in the West Ham squad and there’s no doubt that he would be a massive miss if he were to leave the London Stadium in the next few weeks.