Declan Rice has stated his pride in being West Ham captain to lead the club to its first European final in 47 years following our win over AZ Alkmaar last night.

The West Ham captain was understandably thrilled to see the club he has been at age of 14 make history and now face Italian side Fiorentina in the Final in under 3 weeks time in Prague.

Rice has been the talisman and leader of West Ham having taken the role from Hammers legend, Sporting Director and his close friend Mark Noble over the last couple of years, and Dec couldn’t contain his pride and love for the club with everyone now dreaming of lifting our first major trophy in 43 years.

“To wear the armband for this Club, I know how big it is, I really know how big it is,” exclaimed Rice when talking to the clubs Official Website.

“I’m hoping to finish the season on a high now. We’ve obviously got two Prem games left but ultimately the big one is the seventh of June and we’ll give it absolutely everything.

“You can say the pressure has lifted because we’ve created history tonight, regardless. To get to a final for the first time in 47 years, every one of us will be remembered in West Ham.”

Rice’s future has been one of constant speculation, and the West Ham captain has stated he ignores the noise and just focuses on his football and delivering for the club he loves.

“I’ve had to deal with a lot, on and off the pitch, but I just take it with a pinch of salt, really, and I just try to play my football, try to play with a smile on my face and every time I put on that shirt, I know what it means.

“If I don’t always play my best, I can never let the badge down, so I always give 100 per cent because the fans, like I say every time, it’s a Thursday night, they’re here and some have missed two days of work and I appreciate every single one of you.

“From me, a big thank you because even thought the season’s not been the best, you still sing your hearts out every week and we really appreciate it.”