West Ham midfielder Declan Rice has once again been on the received end of plaudits from across the football spectrum following a masterful display.
The 22-year-old was at the heart of yet another superb victory for the Hammers as David Moyes’ side beat Aston Villa 4-1 at Villa Park.
Having taken the lead through Ben Johnson, the Irons were pegged back momentarily before a long-range Rice strike gave the visitors the advantage.
Ezri Kona’s second-half dismissal have Moyes’ men a boost as West Ham ran riot to cement their place in the Premier League top four.
After the match, former England striker Gary Lineker took to Twitter to laud the Hammers and Rice in particular.
Overall the 27-cap ace completed two key passes, one clearance, two interceptions and two tackles to add to an assist and a goal.
That all-around dominant display earned a remarkable 8.70 Sofascore rating – comfortably the highest on show in the Midlands.
So far this season Rice has scored three and assisted three goals on 13 appearances.
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On current form, it’s difficult to think of any midfielder playing better in the Premier League.
The £63million valued ace has been sensational all season and will be relishing the opportunity to pit his wits against Liverpool next Sunday at the London Stadium.
As for West Ham more generally, this campaign has been truly outstanding so far and Moyes will be confident something special could be on the horizon.
