“Declan can walk into any club in Europe”

Declan Rice has been described as Paul Gascoigne-like when the Geordie boy was in his pomp.

And both Joe Cole and Peter Crouch believe the Hammers skipper is capable of playing for any team in the world.

It is entirely clear that Dec is on his way this summer although Crouch believes it will be difficult for him because he could become a West Ha legend by staying at the London Stadium.

Both pundits heaped praise on Declan as he continues to lead the Hammers on what is all but certain to be his last season at the club.

Speaking on BT Sport former Hammers star Cole said: ‘It’s incredible. He is an all-round midfielder. A lot of criticism has come his way about not scoring. 

‘When we see him playing for England and he plays a role he really controls it from there and he breaks up play, that is what he does very very well but he’s added [goals] to his game.

‘For me, it’s not a necessity it is a bonus. I said it on the night, this is Paul Gascoigne-like, at his pomp.

‘But he’s got that in his locker and I just think there’s going to be so many suitors for him at the end of the season as clubs all around Europe will want Declan Rice in their team. West Ham have got a real real gem and credit to him for getting so fast to 200 games.’

Rice’s current deal at the London Stadium is set to expire at the end of next season and Peter Crouch insisted he would be capable of starting in any Premier League team should he decide to leave.

‘It’s a difficult one because if he stays he would be a West Ham legend,’ Crouch said.

‘But I think the fans understand that maybe he will want to go and play Champions League football.

‘I think that he could walk into any team, I really do. I think Manchester City, Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea; I think he would walk into any team.’