West Ham captain Declan Rice has backed his capabilities whilst stating that our fans are very aware of what he can offer.
The England midfielder, who is currently in Naples ahead of the Three Lions clash with Italy in the Euro 2024 qualifying Group C match tonight, was speaking to the press and was quizzed on comments made about him recently by Graeme Souness and Roy Keane.
Both pundits and former players had made points that Rice needed to add more to his game to be considered one of the worlds best midfielders – something many Hammers fans would disagree with, and Rice was quick to point that fact out.
“It’s harsh,” said Rice as reported by BBC Sport. “I think it’s harsh because Souness doesn’t watch West Ham every week.
“There’s loads of West Ham fans, 60,000 go every week, and see what I do. So I think to say I’m only good at one of three things is harsh.”
The Irons talisman though also made it clear that he doesn’t let any negative comments towards him affect him in a bad way, and rather uses them to help him grow as a player further.
“It’s one of those where you take it with a pinch of salt,” added Rice.
“He’s (Keane) said some glowing things about me in the past and sometimes some things I can improve as well.
“You try not to let it affect you that much. I can take criticism on the chin quite well. If it is that way I can see where I can improve.”
