West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice has named Sergio Busquets and Jorginho as his two footballing role models.
The 20-year-old has had an impressive season for West Ham, earning himself a call up for the England national team – despite having been capped by the Republic of Ireland at both youth and senior levels.
Who is Declan Rice learning from? Five key things to know…
- Declan Rice has been impressive for West Ham United this season.
- The 20-year-old has been playing largely in midfield despite ending the last campaign at centre-back.
- His performances have seen Rice earn two England caps in the most recent international break.
- And Rice has admitted he pays close attention to the playing styles of Sergio Busquets and Jorginho.
- Four of West Ham’s 15 defeats this season have come in games Declan Rice has not played any part.
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Rice made his England debut in the recent international break, coming on from the bench in the Three Lions’ 5-0 win against Czech Republic before starting the following 5-1 victory over Montenegro.
And the 20-year-old, who is also capable of playing in defence, has admitted he has been watching Busquets and Jorginho for pointers on how to improve in midfield.
“Busquets is the one I’ve watched since I was a kid,” Rice told the Telegraph.
“He doesn’t move from the centre circle. He plays with 360 vision. I’m 20, I’m learning the position, of course I am going to get better. There is stuff I definitely need to improve on.
“I study for myself, my own games and others. I like Jorginho, the way he plays and passes. There’s stuff I can add to my game.”
Since starting in West Ham’s first win of the season – a 3-1 win victory over Everton – Rice has played the full 90 minutes in every Premier League game for the Hammers.
In that time, the Englishman has scored two goals, both coming in home wins over Arsenal and Newcastle United, respectively.
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Pellegrini admits West Ham could sell Rice
Aside from earning an England call-up, Rice’s performances at West Ham this season have also seen the midfielder linked with a move to the likes of Manchester City and Manchester United.
And in a recent press conference, West Ham manager Manuel Pellegrini has admitted the club could sell Rice if the right amount is offered.
“In that case, as always, it is just a matter of price,” he told reporters.
“There are big teams who decide to pay an important amount of money. Sure, if it is a good deal for the club and the player and improves his career, then we can do it. But I know nothing about that yet.”
