OPINION
Tony Gale was asked his opinion on West Ham teenager Declan Rice and his appraisal of the player’s ability shows how Manuel Pellegrini has created an exciting dilemma for himself.
The pundit and former Hammers player, who can often be found on Sky Sports’ Premier League Daily Show, revealed that while he thought Rice was currently excelling in midfield once he starts being utilised as a defender he will be one of the best for his position in the country.
Gale explained that playing in a midfield role will improve Rice in order for him to being an even better than defender he was before.
“He’s a top player Al (Alan Brazil) and a top boy as well,” said the Sky pundit on talkSPORT (Wednesday October 31st, 8:13am).
“He’s been playing in midfield this season but for me his best position is at the back, in the back-four.
“So when he goes back into that back-four after having that midfield spot, I think his feet are going to be quicker from his time in midfield.
“His general play is going to be better and I think you’re going to see one of the top central defenders in the country without a doubt.
“He’s doing well in midfield, very well, but when he goes back into that back-four position, what a player that kid is going to be.”
Pellegrini opted to start playing Rice in his midfield rather than using him as a centre-back like the Hammers previously did last season.
This move has worked wonders for the experienced manager as the teen sensation has shone bright in the majority of his nine appearances this season.
Rice is able to add a steely presence to the club’s midfield which is something they have lacked for several seasons.
However Gale’s appraisal of Rice’s ability is accurate and he will no doubt be an improved defender for having spent time playing in the club’s midfield.
Given that Pellegrini opted to deploy the teen regularly in his midfield this season then he has created an excited dilemma for himself.
He will face a difficult choice deciding where to play Rice in the near future as the teenager will be able to be a force to be reckon with in two different roles.
The Hammers are currently short of midfield options, particularly defensive ones hence why Rice got the opportunity to play there from the start of the season, but that could change in January.
Pellegrini is likely to welcome new midfielders to the club in the winter window which means he could opt to move Rice back into his natural position in defence.
However given how good he has been, it will be a big decision to disrupt the player’s good form in order to see how he will flourish at the back with his new found experience.
Therefore the Hammers manager has created an exciting dilemma for himself as Gale is right to suggest that Rice could be a top player at the back.
