Declan Rice’s performances on the international stage have attracted mixed reviews from fans and publications, with West Ham supporters questioning the Liverpool Echo’s comments in particular, as noted by Hammers News.
The 22-year-old, who is attracting interest from a number of Premier League rivals, was criticised by the Merseyside-based outlet following England’s 2-1 Euros victory over Denmark in the European Championship semi-finals.
“Poor again from the West Ham man. Struggled to protect the England defence at times,” Theo Squires wrote, rating the midfielder’s performance as being a 6/10.
“Not the best on the ball but at least won some crucial battles.
“Rather fortunate to be keeping his place ahead of Jordan Henderson.”
With Gareth Southgate’s men having secured passage through to the final, neutrals could be treated to a fascinating tactical battle between the Englishman and former Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini of Italy.
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Despite there being some calls from rival fans to drop the Hammers star for the national side’s first major final since 1966, it’s considered likely that the faith will be kept in the midfield duo of Rice and Kalvin Phillips for the weekend.
Having said that, Jordan Henderson’s final experience could prove too tempting to ignore in the face of such a momentous occasion, though there can be no doubt that West Ham supporters would not take well to the swapping of their star midfielder for the Liverpool skipper.
You can catch some of the fan reaction below:
Let's be honest… it is dripping with desperation. The reporter clearly never watched the second half if they think Kalvin Phillips "faded quickly."
— Thomas Ross (@mrtom28) July 8, 2021
Really, really weird. Rice was fairly solid throughout. If anything Phillips started pretty badly, then gradually grew into the game and by the end was arguably our best midfielder in the pitch. Quite the opposite to what they state here.
— Davidman (@dav1dman) July 8, 2021
Rice was superb. Phillips had an off first half, slightly down to how Denmark packed the midfield but the rest of the game he was fantastic
— Danny Collins (@__Danny_Collins) July 8, 2021
Shame on them..
This is not about Liverpool.
This is about England.
Rice and Philips were class last night.— Panni.Pan (@panicospangrat2) July 8, 2021
England only won game because sterling cheated like he always does go italy screw the pomys
Coming home