West Ham star Manuel Lanzini believes Declan Rice has similar qualities to Javier Mascherano and has also tipped the midfielder to be even better than his compatriot was in his prime.
The Argentine playmaker spoke after the Hammers’ comprehensive 2-0 victory over Newcastle United at the weekend. Rice opened the scoring before Mark Noble made it two goals to the good from the penalty spot.
Lanzini was full of praise for the young midfielder, who recently pledged his international allegiances to England after snubbing the Republic of Ireland’s advances.
The 20-year-old has clearly left a lasting impression on his West Ham teammate, who drew comparisons between him and former Liverpool legend Mascherano.
As quoted by The Evening Standard, Lanzini revealed that he believes it is possible for Rice to surpass the ex-Barcelona star in the future. He said:
Declan is the heart of the team. He’s very young but it is like he has played 200 games.
It is amazing to watch him and I like to be in the team with him because he has a good touch, good recovery and he is one of the best players in the Premier League.
I have played with Mascherano and he is a very good player. Declan has started so well and he needs to continue like this. If he stays focused he can be better than Mascherano.
The Hammers midfielder could be selected for England’s upcoming Euro 2020 qualifying fixtures, with the national team’s assistant boss Steve Holland in attendance for the win over Newcastle.
