Former Chelsea defender John Terry has claimed that West Ham’s Declan Rice is currently the best holding midfielder in world football.
Responding to a tweet from the Hammers vice-captain after the 3-2 win over Liverpool yesterday, Terry was effusive in his praise of the England international:
Decland Rice is the best in his position in world football. What a player @_DeclanRice 💙 https://t.co/APf9PNJ7sJ
— John Terry (@John2606Terry) November 7, 2021
Rice has undoubtedly taken his game to another level this season, and Terry’s remarks won’t be disputed by any West Ham supporter who sees the 22-year-old play every week.
However, there will be concern that Terry’s praise has an ulterior motive. Chelsea (along with Manchester United and Manchester City) are believed to be interested in signing Rice and this could be an opening salvo in the Blues’ campaign to persuade the midfielder into returning to Stamford Bridge.
If it was intended to grease the wheels for a potential transfer, though, it may backfire. West Ham can use Terry’s comments in any negotiation to justify their £100m plus valuation of the player, which will surely scare off Chelsea and other suitors.
