West Ham are set for an emotional final home game of the season today with Declan Rice likely playing his final game at London Stadium for the club.

Our captain and talisman has once again been in exceptional form this season, having helped steer the club away from the Premier League trapdoor and now reaching the final of the Europa Conference League.

There is no denying that he has immersed himself as one of the best players to pull on a West Ham shirt and the fact he came through our famed Academy makes it all the more special.

Rice, who joined the club at just 14 years old, has captured the hearts of all connected with the club having taken the captaincy from Mark Noble and done so with class and excellent leadership.

Since making his debut for the club at the end of the 2016/17 season against Burnley, it is sometimes hard to comprehend that it was already 6 years ago with Declan since going on to be one of the best players in the country and Europe.

ExWHUEmployee, who has witnessed Rice’s development since arriving at the club, has paid tribute our club captain and star from our famed Academy of Football.

“I remember I was talking about this young kid I had heard so many good things about as a youth team player on the podcast as if it were yesterday,” stated Ex.

“I made the bold statement at the time that he would go on to be a multiple Hammer of the Year winner, England international and be wanted by all the big clubs whilst with us. I took a lot of stick for that in the early days but anyone who knew the ability he had and the character and determination could see it was all achievable.

“Well I think he has exceeded those expectations now and is well and truly at the peak of his game and will get even better.

“If this does prove to be his last home game for the club which I sadly expect it will be then he deserves a massive send off for all that he has achieved for us over the years. He should go with nothing but our best wishes and the hope that he will return one day in some capacity.”

Should this be Declan’s final home match of the season, then all of us at The West Ham Way wish Declan well and look forward to letting him know how cherished he is when we play Leeds later today.