West Ham must qualify for the UEFA Champions League to keep star midfielder Declan Rice according to former Premier League and England goalkeeper Paul Robinson.
The Hammers currently sit third in the table and are once again exceeding expectations under David Moyes.
However, speaking to Football Insider, Robinson suggested that in order to fend off continued interest in their prized asset the club has to be in Europe’s elite competition.
Champions League qualification is the only chance West Ham have of keeping Declan Rice. West Ham are doing unbelievable things under David Moyes. He has built a great squad there. As a team, they have surprised a lot of people. If they continue to perform like this, Rice will want to stay. He is arguably the best midfielder in the country. As I say though, the only way he stays is if they finish in the top four. There will be a good chance of him leaving next summer if not though as big clubs are interested in him.
So far this season Rice has scored three and assisted three other goals in 15 appearances across all competitions.
READ WEST HAM VERDICT
At present, there is no need for West Ham fans to be concerned over their star man’s future at the London Stadium.
Whilst it was always necessary for the club to progress in order to keep the £63million valued 22 year old, currently, the trajectory is heading very much in the right direction.
Next summer will almost certainly bring about renewed interest in the dominant midfield ace, Moyes’ side simply need to be in a position of strength to say no all over again.
