Declan Rice to stay at West Ham

Contract talks stall, but West Ham star insists there’s nothing to worry about

For the last year or so there has been rumor after rumor of Declan Rice signing with a “big six” club, but those interested suitors might have to wait a bit longer. The young England international is happy in East London.

And his play on the field backs that up.

Rice finished off a lovely team move in West Ham’s Europa League win against Rapid Vienna — making it two goals in two European matches for Rice this season.

https://twitter.com/CBSSportsGolazo/status/1443661333933658127

Before the match, Rice told the media he is happy right where he is.

"“I feel you can see in my performances nothing’s up, nothing’s concerning me,” Declan said. “I’m playing with a smile on my face, I’m going out there, I’m leading the team.“I think you could see a difference if I wasn’t going out there and giving 100 per cent but every time I’m putting on the shirt – I’ve got the armband on at the moment – my only objective is to go out there and give everything for the club and get three points.“You can see how happy I am on the pitch, I love playing for this team and this manager. Honestly, it’s such a great place to be around at the moment. With the results and how well we’re doing, it makes it that bit more special.”Source: Skysports.com"

Rice has every right to be happy with the way things are going for the Hammers. West Ham hosted their first competitive European home match since 2006 and came out victorious to make things even sweeter.

Seeing how vital he is to this West Ham squad must make him feel like he is in the right spot in this moment of his career.

Rice, along with some new signings, helped the Hammers make a charge for the top four last season where they came up just two points shy, settling for a Europa League spot.

After an impressive Premier League campaign and Euro 2020 run, there is no question that many in the “big six” would want to see Rice in their team.

But for now, Rice remains a Hammer and will continue to push the club he loves to greater heights. West Ham is off to a fine start in the league and currently sit on top of their Europa League group.

Will Rice be forever blowing bubbles like many West Ham supporters hope? Probably not, but for the near future, he looks to be a mainstay in the Hammers midfield.