Declan Rice continues to be linked with a move to Manchester United amid talk over his West Ham future and revealed his loyalty ahead of presenting an award at the latest iteration of the BRITs
Declan Rice did not attempt to hide his thoughts on a move to Manchester United following an intriguing meeting at the BRITs.
The West Ham midfielder was in attendance at The O2 on Saturday evening to present an award, just hours after his side’s controversial 1-1 draw with Chelsea at the London Stadium. He was on hand to help with the Best Hip Hop, Grime and Rap Act- and despite having given his backing to Stormzy, Rice handed the award over to Aitch.
But before the ceremony itself, the midfielder was at the heart of an intriguing interview with presenter Amelia Dimoldenberg.
The 24-year-old was offered a number of souvenirs including a packet of Monster Munch and a chicken nugget. Dimoldenberg then appeared to weigh in on Rice’s future on the pitch by saying: “I do have a Manchester United mug…”
That offer instantly triggered a shake of the head from the England star before he replied: “Not for me, that.” The pair then displayed their affection for Rice’s current employers with a rendition of “Up the Hammers” each.
Rice’s current stance on United appears to be a slight U-turn on his latest thoughts on the Red Devils. He was previously complimentary of United’s Old Trafford home.
Declan Rice continues to be linked with a move away from West Ham ( Image: Getty Images)
Speaking to Sky Sports, he said: “It’s inspiring for sure – it’s Old Trafford. You think of the heritage, the big games that have been here, the top players that have played here.
“You want to come here as a player and stamp your mark and stamp your authority – one to get a win, and two to play well yourself.”
United could face a fair amount of competition for the signing of Rice should they attempt to make a move sooner rather than later. Chelsea have been noted as long-term admirers of the midfielder in the past although it remains to be seen whether they make a move following the record-breaking signing of Enzo Fernandez from Benfica.
Elsewhere, it has been suggested that Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta is prioritising a swoop for Rice in the upcoming summer window with Champions League football likely to be on offer at the Emirates Stadium next term. It also remains to be seen what league his current employers West Ham will be in next season with the Hammers currently embroiled in a battle to avoid relegation to the Championship.
Rice has made 28 appearances for David Moyes’ men this term in all competitions, scoring just one goal. He could potentially be on the move sooner rather than later with just 18 months remaining on his current deal at the London Stadium.
It is suggested that it would take a record-breaking bid of £120m to secure his signature.
Man United star so impressed with 23-year-old Liverpool player’s display in Merseyside Derby
Manchester United defender Tyrell Malacia has applauded Cody Gakpo’s goal-scoring turn for Liverpool last night.
The Dutch forward finally bagged his first Liverpool goal at the seventh time of asking on Monday evening – slotting home to put the Reds 2-0 up against Everton.
It was a big goal for Liverpool, and potentially an even bigger one for Gakpo himself. To mark the occasion, the 23-year-old posted some shots of his celebrations on Instagram once the game had finished.
As you can imagine, plenty of his Reds teammates were showing their delight for their young colleague. Virgil van Dijk couldn’t contain his smile – in emoji form anyway – as he acknowledged his countryman’s first Liverpool goal.
Jordan Henderson was also in attendance in the comments, leaving an applauding emoji to show his appreciation.
More surprisingly perhaps, was the presence of United left-back Malacia. The two are well-known to each other having played through the Dutch youth teams – and senior side – together. Still, we can never get used to seeing United and Liverpool players getting on so well. Gakpo’s display was well worth the two ‘on fire’ emojis Malacia sent, though.
Keep your friends close
Having been born just three months apart, it’s certain that Gakpo and Malacia’s friendship transcends football rivalry.
Previously of PSV Eindhoven and Feyenoord respectively, it isn’t like they’re not used to being enemies on the pitch, too. But in the Netherlands, both clubs traditionally have the most beef with Ajax, not each other.
Photo by Eric Verhoeven/Soccrates/Getty Images
Here in England, things are different. United haven’t been at their best during recent years, but they’ve still always been Liverpool’s favourite team to beat. And despite Manchester City’s rise to dominance, that remains the same the other way.
Now that Erik ten Hag has them looking like their old selves again, the rivalry should hopefully kick back into life.
It’s often been true that Liverpool and United haven’t been good at the same time. Rarely have they been directly battling each other for titles. With the Reds hoping to return to their position of strength next season, perhaps we may finally see that play out.
If it comes to that, don’t expect to see Gakpo and Malacia going for each other’s throats. The £13m defender is still new through the doors at Old Trafford, though. Perhaps he may need reminding by his own club’s fans that these two institutions aren’t anything like friends.
Source: mirror.co.uk; rousingthekop.com
