Declan Rice is the old head on young shoulders that the Premier League needs

Despite still being just 21 years of age, Declan Rice wore the captain’s armband for West Ham United at Bramall Lane on Sunday as the Hammers ran out 1-0 victors over the Blades.

The midfielder was a major presence in the West Ham midfield, constantly winning balls back as well as setting David Moyes’ offensive players on their way for an attack.

The week had already gotten off to an excellent start for Rice as he scored his first international goal for England at Wembley on Wednesday night in the Three Lions’ 4-0 victory over Iceland in the Nations League. However, it got even better with a crucial victory with his club on Sunday.

West Ham have had a decent start to their Premier League campaign, picking up 14 points from their first nine games which sees them climb up to eighth after their victory in South Yorkshire.

Their opponent Sheffield United, however, have major problems as they’re yet to record a win this term.

In what was a closely contested affair, Sheffield United started the stronger of the two sides, with it obvious that Chris Wilder’s men had a point to prove.

However, a few decent passes forward wouldn’t amount to much of an attack…why? Declan Rice.

The West Ham skipper was everywhere. He put in the dirty work when the Blades looked to come forward but also didn’t shy away from being involved in attacks. In fact, there were times when Rice took up positions almost as advanced as striker Sebastien Haller.

The stats don’t lie. An 88% pass accuracy, nine ball recoveries and two chances created; a box-to-box display.

The Englishman could’ve even had a goal on the day, hitting the woodwork with a header from Pablo Fornals’ corner.

In fairness, the entire West Ham team were set up very well by David Moyes, with full-backs Masuaku and Cresswell particularly impressive on either flank, as well as new man Vladimir Coufal who had a decent afternoon.

But there’s clearly a leader in Rice. With club captain Mark Noble’s now-regular absence from the starting lineup, Rice has stepped up massively, winning the fans’ Man of the Match award for his efforts.

Having worked his way through the youth setup, there’s clearly a great respect for the midfielder from his fellow teammates and the staff at the club, hence why he’s been awarded with the privilege that is the captain’s armband.

Speculation with a move away from the London Stadium, particularly to city-rivals Chelsea, will only intensify with strong performances like Sunday’s. But the midfielder just needs to keep his head down and focus on playing for West Ham, something he’s clearly doing already.

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