Pundits are paid as much as anything else to take different points of view to create discussion – par for the course!
However, Jamie Carragher doesn’t strike me as the type of guy who goes in for that stuff for the sake of it and I tend to listen a little more closely to the scouser than most of the others.
I know he’s had his issues and was off our screens for a while as a result but despite the reasons under which he disappeared I am glad to see him back as his fast talking, cut to the chase approach, appeals to me.
So when he started talking up Declan in a big way I don’t believe he was necessarily disagreeing with the more muted views co pundit Gary Neville but rather offering an honest view on our defensive midfielder.
While was being – well typically Gary , post-match on Monday night – fellow pundit Carragher was positively gushing in his praise for our young England star.
Clearly impressed by what he had seen, Carragher was adamant in saying: ““If I was top four Premier League team and I was looking for a player in that defensive midfield position, I’d certainly have Declan Rice. Do I think that Declan is of the quality to play for a top team in the Champions League? I believe he can.”
The former Liverpool and England defender was also quick to point out it’s not only Rice’s defensive skills that have impressed him. “Declan’s passing is better than he’s actually given credit for. One drilled cross field pass (against Villa) was sensational,” enthused Carragher.
Recalling he previously played in a defensive midfield position for the England Under 21 side – before moving back into the centre of defence – Carragher said he is well aware of what a tough ask it is to perform in there.
He said: “Holding midfield players in England are different to continental players in that position. We see them as players who break things up. Europe see them as players who are more creative but Declan is showing he has those creative qualities to his game as well.”
Of course we have known that for a while – but it’s still nice to hear it put well on TVY
PS: Of course, as sought after as Declan may be, he’s going nowhere Carra!