In a recent interview on talkSPORT (via Chronicle Live), former Premier League striker Darren Bent urged Newcastle United to recruit West Ham United star Declan Rice. Bent said,
“When you think about Newcastle and the rebuild you want a statement signing and someone that’s going to take them to the next level.
“But could Eddie Howe deal with a level of expectations and attitude when it comes to
that next level?
“Well, Declan is the complete opposite of that. Top-class player. The right attitude. He’s
not going to give you any problems, if ever Newcastle wanted to make a statement
signing, then there is one.”
Rice’s Decent Numbers At The London Stadium This Season
Rice has enjoyed another impressive campaign at West Ham recently as he has put in a series of dominant performances at the heart of David Moyes’ midfield. The London-born midfield ace has registered five goals and four assists in 49 appearances for the Hammers this season in all competitions.
The England international has been a reliable performer at the centre of the park based on his average of 2.1 tackles, 1.7 interceptions, 1.5 clearances, 1.0 shots, 1.0 key passes and 0.9 dribbles per 90 minutes in Premier League football. He has also been tidy with his ball distribution after making 88% of his attempted passes in the top tier of English football (stats via whoscored).
Is Rice A Dream Option For Newcastle United Boss Eddie Howe?
Rice loves a tackle at the centre of the park and can scan the danger quickly to earn the ball back for his team. He doesn’t hesitate to clear the danger when needed and has also got the vision to create some inviting chances for his teammates in the opposition half.
The English midfield enforcer can strike the ball with venom and accuracy from long range and is usually full of energy and running in midfield. However, he is yet to win a major trophy at the highest level.
We can expect Rice to inject a lot of quality into Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe‘s midfield. He will also help the Magpies challenge for some major honours in the coming seasons.
At 24, Rice will only get better over the next few years which makes him a dream option for the Tyneside club to consider for the long run.
