West Ham midfielder Declan Rice has revealed he hopes his summer is cut short by an international call-up to England’s UEFA Nations League semi-final.
Manuel Pellegrini’s side finished their Premier League campaign with a 4-1 demolition job over Watford which meant they finished in the top half of the table.
Rice, 20, insisted that he would be delighted if his holiday was cut short by a call from Gareth Southgate. He told West Ham TV: “Of course, I want to be in that England squad and that’s what I’m hoping. That’s why I want it to be a short holiday. I’ve got to be prepared for anything, but I’d be delighted with that!”
The Hammer’s starlet enjoyed a great season in holding midfield and made his international debut for England in a 5-0 win over Czech Republic at Wembley in March.
OPINION
There is no doubting that this is a huge summer for West Ham and Declan Rice. A call up to the Nations League squad would be a huge vote of confidence in the youngster from Southgate, who has already shown in his tenure that he isn’t afraid to put his trust in the younger players. Alongside his international ambitions, Rice has been attracting a lot of reported interest from top six clubs, Manchester United in-particular. If an offer comes along it will be a massive call and a big temptation to earn more money and possibly secure a starting spot in a European side. Having said this, Rice seems content at West Ham and looks keen to kick on and become an even bigger part of the squad after a fantastic first full season under Pellegrini. The 20-year-old has become a mainstay in the Hammers midfield, making 34 appearances, scoring two goals and another international call up would top off a brilliant campaign for Rice.
