EVERYONE, MEET ENGLAND’S FUTURE CAPTAIN
In a stunning year, Declan Rice has helped his country reach a major tournament final for the first time since the 1966 World Cup, and West Ham to their furthest point in Europe for 40 years. Ask the midfield maestro himself, though, and it’s merely a starting point…
Declan Rice outstretched his arms and embraced the abuse. He may have been in front of Dinamo Zagreb’s fearsome Bad Blue Boys ultras, but the young midfielder wouldn’t be cowed during his big moment.
Besides, he’d almost made a sport of continental crowdbaiting by now. A fortnight earlier, the 22-year-old had netted as England won 4-0 in Hungary, and delivered the game’s defining image by cheekily pretending to swig from a plastic cup thrown at Raheem Sterling by the baying home fans.
In Croatia, Rice had walked into another of Europe’s most intimidating venues – and events were following a similar pattern. He came, he scored, he celebrated in front of ultras without the slightest hint of fear.
This time, the confident anchorman had dashed from his own half to score a brilliant solo goal for West Ham, on his first ever appearance in European club competition. Dinamo Zagreb humiliated Tottenham at the Maksimir last season, but Rice’s goal ensured that the Hammers triumphed 2-0 – and he was determined to enjoy the moment, right in front of the home supporters.
“It had to be done,” chuckles Rice, as he talks to FFT. “I was buzzing. It was the first Europa League game, we won and I was captain – it was a special night. They were giving a bit of stick to my team-mate Nikola Vlasic [formerly of Hajduk Split], so I thought I’d stand up to them myself and put my arms out. I don’t think they were too happy!
“Every time I step on the pitch, those
