West Ham midfielder Declan Rice is once again in the spotlight following an inactive transfer window in East London.
The Hammers were expected to strengthen their ranks in order to compete for a Premier League top-four finish.
However, David Moyes failed to add to the squad and many believe the hopes of a strong end to the campaign may have been dashed.
Discussing what a poor end to the season and indeed a lack of ambition may mean for the future of Rice, ex-Tottenham midfielder Jamie O’Hara and former Chelsea man Jason Cundy exchanged a heated debate on talkSPORT.
😔 JC: “How do you think Rice feels? I think he’ll feel disappointed.”
🤔 J’OH: “Why? The recruitment has been good. Why does he need to leave?”
Jamie O’Hara & Jason Cundy debate why Declan Rice would even need to leave #WHUFC in the summer pic.twitter.com/oxmf2xotJ7
— talkSPORT (@talkSPORT) February 1, 2022
Cundy claimed the situation had ‘all the hallmarks’ of an incoming move for the 27-cap England man.
This morning Aston Villa favourite Gabby Agbonlahor has added to the argument and suggested that West Ham have ‘given up’ on the top four.
👀 “#WHUFC have given up on top four. It was the perfect chance to get #UCL.”
🔥 “How long will Rice be happy with Europa League? He’ll go in the summer!”@Ga11Agbon believes West Ham have ‘given up’ top four & thinks Declan Rice will leave… pic.twitter.com/ZySdCgqBgf
— talkSPORT (@talkSPORT) February 2, 2022
READ WEST HAM VERDICT
It comes to something when O’Hara is fighting a corner for the Irons.
Under a contract until 2024 (Transfermarkt) the Hammers still hold much of the power when it comes to their powerful midfield star.
Having already rejected offers of a new deal to extend that stay at the London Stadium, there is certainly a concern that pastures new could beckon for Rice.
The Englishman has previously spoken of a desire to play at the highest level and in truth, performances warrant a shot at Champions League football.
Previously courted by the likes of Chelsea and Manchester United, it looks as though West Ham will face a battle to keep the £67.5million valued ace beyond this summer.
