In a recent edition of ESPN FC, television pundit Craig Burley urged Newcastle United to land West Ham United star Declan Rice. Burley said,
“What about another midfielder to complement Guimaraes.
“Maybe another wide guy.
“If I could go and get Declan Rice, to sit in front of the back four, and they have the money. He probably wants to go to a side that’s further down the road, in terms of their progression.
“But if I could sit him in front of the back four and let Guimaraes and all these others go and play, then I think it would be a pretty good deal.”
Rice’s Decent Run Of Form In English Football
Rice is experiencing a solid campaign at the London Stadium as he has put in a string of impressive performances at the heart of West Ham’s midfield. The English sensation has made 41 appearances for the Hammers this season, netting four goals and grabbing four assists in all competitions.
The 24-year-old has given a good account of himself at the centre of the park based on his average of 2.3 tackles, 1.7 interceptions, 1.6 clearances, 1.0 shots, 1.1 key passes and 0.8 dribbles per 90 minutes in the Premier League. He has even been excellent when distributing possession from midfield after making 88.1% of his attempted passes in league football (stats via whoscored).
Is Rice A Dream Option For Newcastle United Boss Eddie Howe?
Rice can be a positive influence at both ends of the field. He is a good tackler of the ball and can read the danger well to earn the ball back for his side at the centre of the park. The English talent doesn’t mind clearing the danger when needed and can strike the ball with power and accuracy from long range. He has got the vision to engineer a few inviting chances in the final third and can make some driving runs with the ball as well.
We can expect Rice to bring more bite and steel to Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe’s midfield. He could even go on to form a dominant midfield partnership with Bruno Guimaraes at St. James’ Park.
Thus, the Tyneside giants should listen to Burley’s advice by moving in for Rice in the summer. The West Ham star will be a dream option for the Magpies as he has what it takes to help them challenge for a major trophy or two in the coming seasons.
