West Ham vs Southampton: Premier League – Opposition Threats

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 01: Felipe Anderson of West Ham United celebrates with teammate Declan Rice after scoring his team's third goal during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and West Ham United at St. James Park on December 1, 2018 in Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 01: Felipe Anderson of West Ham United celebrates with teammate Declan Rice after scoring his team's third goal during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and West Ham United at St. James Park on December 1, 2018 in Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
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LONDON, ENGLAND – MARCH 16: Declan Rice of West Ham United battles for possession with Philip Billing of Huddersfield Town during the Premier League match between West Ham United and Huddersfield Town at London Stadium on March 16, 2019 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Tony Marshall/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND – MARCH 16: Declan Rice of West Ham United battles for possession with Philip Billing of Huddersfield Town during the Premier League match between West Ham United and Huddersfield Town at London Stadium on March 16, 2019 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Tony Marshall/Getty Images)

Declan Rice

The 20 year old has had a standout year this season and whilst he may have only scored twice in the 18/19 campaign, much of the Hammer’s best play comes through the midfielder.

Rice is an advert for playing youth and looks mature on and off the ball in the heart of the midfield. The scramble for his international signature has been heated with the youngster declaring for England in recent months.

Southampton will need to put pressure on Rice from the outset and not allow him to dictate proceedings. Although Rice is a fine prospect, he is capable of making mistakes and with 4 yellows, he is not afraid to put himself about.

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