DECLAN RICE has hit back at Graeme Souness — who claimed the England star is a one-trick pony.
The West Ham captain is shocked by criticism from Souness — who said he only had one of three key attributes of a midfielder — but insists the former Liverpool player rarely watches him play.
He was speaking ahead of England’s Euro 2024 qualifier this evening against ItalyPhoto by Alessandro Garofalo/LaPresse/Shutterstock (Rex)
GettyThe Liverpool legend feels Rice doesn’t have the requisite offensive qualities to be considered a true top midfielder[/caption]
Keane had had a similar line of criticism of Rice earlier this monthPhoto by Matt West/Shutterstock (Rex)
Rice, 24, said: “I think it’s harsh because Souness doesn’t watch West Ham every week.
“There are loads of West Ham fans and they see what I do.
“So to say I’m only good at one of three is harsh but Souness was a top midfielder and when someone like him speaks you have to listen.”
On Roy Keane’s previous comments, he added: “Roy … has said some glowing things about me in the past and sometimes said some things that I can improve on as well.
“It’s one of those where you take it with a pinch of salt and try not to let it affect you that much.”
Souness had said: “This role is a vital part of any team because in an ideal world, it’s multi-dimensional.
“You’re creative, you chip in with goals and you’ve got a defensive head at all times.
“If you’ve got all three of those attributes, you’re worth your weight in gold. For me, Rice has just one.
“Judge him on the defensive aspect alone and you would have to say he’s the best in the country.”
KEANE CRITIQUE
Meanwhile earlier this month Keane had made headlines by admitting he was no longer as impressed with the former Ireland player having previously spoken very highly of his ability.
The Corkman said: “I don’t think he’s been that good.
“I don’t think he’s been great this season. He’s not really kicked on, you know, for all the talk about him, a lot of good PR coming out of West ham, how much he’s worth.
“He needs to do a lot more. He doesn’t get enough goals, doesn’t get enough assists.
“Do you disagree? (To Ian Wright) That’s good. I hope you disagree with me.
“Because I think I know what I’m talking about, I played in midfield.
“There’s talk of him, he’s gonna be leaving for big money and going to one of the bigger clubs who will be competing for trophies obviously and playing in Champions League.
“He needs to do a lot more. It’s just, it’s as simple as that.”
Set to face Italy for England tonight, Rice looks set to leave West Ham this summer.
But he said: “When I get back to West Ham, it’s about playing the best I can to get us out the relegation battle and win the Conference League.”