Sky Sports pundit Graeme Souness is adamant that there are still weaknesses in Declan Rice’s game despite his starring role for England against Italy last week.

While Souness acknowledges that the West Ham captain has “mastered” the defensive aspects of his position, he wants to see the 24-year-old make more forward passes on the “half turn” like Manchester United legend Paul Scholes:

“I watched the game against Italy and the same things were on show. Any world-class midfield player is on the half-turn most of the time and looking to play forwards. How many times did Rice do that in Naples? Not nearly enough for me. Get some videos of Kroos and Modric playing in their midfield roles for Real Madrid. Or go back a few years and watch Paul Scholes.”

“As we saw against Italy, he has mastered the defensive side of the job. But I just think he has to strive to be better and never be content with his lot. That’s what great players do. Will he end up one day as a central defender – which I think is very possible – or does he want to be a top, top central midfield player starring in the Champions League every season?”

It appears that Souness is hoping that Rice can become an all-action midfielder, capable of doing everything, rather than just settling for being an enforcer in the middle of the park.

The England international certainly has the potential to develop those attributes but it’s doubtful that Hammers’ fans will see that evolution during his time at the London Stadium.

Rice looks destined to leave at the end of the season, with the likes of Arsenal, Chelsea and United said to be leading the battle to secure his signature.