Jamie Carragher: I think Declan Rice would be perfect in a back three

The former Liverpool defender also compared the West Ham midfielder's abilities to his own.

Jamie Carragher has described West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice as a new version of himself as the youngster continues to be linked towards a move to Manchester United.

Rice has come through West Ham’s season over the last few seasons, impressing in a midfield role and showcasing versatility to play in a number of positions. His impressive work has clearly won over the former Liverpool defender, who compared the West Ham midfielder to how he started off his own career at Anfield.  

Speaking to Sky Sports, he said, “He reminds me a bit of myself. I started in midfield and went back to centre-back. I’m a big fan of Declan Rice because he’s come in and had people say he’s great over different stages. Then this season he’s struggled a bit.

“That happens to every player, everyone’s talking about you, then you have a bit of criticism. I think he’s got a bit of character, he never hides, he’s playing in central midfield as a young lad. I think he’s better on the ball than he’s given credit for.”

Jamie Carragher also suggests that Declan Rice could transition into a centre-back role soon, having all the traits to thrive in a back three.

He explained, “There’s a slight criticism in terms of how he receives the ball. There is an art to that. But when he gets on the ball, he gets his head up, he’s looking forward.

“He’s got something about him. At centre-back he won’t have those problems, everything’s in front of him. that’s why I was never going to be a top-class central midfield player at Liverpool; I was never quick enough with the ball at my feet.

“In terms of stepping out with the ball, I think he’d be perfect in a back three. I’d have no qualms about him going into midfield. But at his age, every player’s got to improve.”

The 21-year-old midfielder has been among West Ham’s top performers in what has been an extremely disappointing season for the Hammers, who sacked Manuel Pellegrini to bring in David Moyes in mid-season.

However, that hasn’t really helped that much as they are still very much in the relegation battle and only out of the relegation zone thanks to a slightly superior goal difference to Watford and Bournemouth.

The Hammers could be back in action in June, when the Premier League is planning to restart its campaign. Rice has the opportunity to redeem their season and steer them to safety, as he continues to be in the interests of Man United, who are said to be looking for a sturdy defensive midfielder to complete their midfield in the summer.