Scriptwriters in the Premier League are so entwined in subplots and hidden messages that comments made in sincerity are often put under the microscope to create box office headlines. Now that was certainly the case when Declan Rice last boarded the bus home from Old Trafford in January.
How the tables have turned in the last nine months. Manchester United have gone from strength to strength under Erik ten Hag and Rice - subject to priority interest from the club before the Dutchman was appointed - remains at a crossroads in his career. But will they unite beyond their Sunday afternoon meeting?
In what was a rare highlight for Marcus Rashford and the team last season, his last-gasp winner gunned down Rice and his teammates as the Hammers captain drew attention with his post-match comments. With that bitter taste yet to disperse, Rice bizarrely shared his love for Old Trafford.
