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Jake Stokes & Luke Thrower

Graeme Souness tells Chelsea transfer target Declan Rice what to improve on to reach next level

West Ham midfielder Declan Rice has continued to impress since his meteoric rise on both the Premier League stage and in an international capacity.

The 23-year-old has gone on to become a key figure in the midfield for the Hammers, while adding a presence as captain in the absence of Mark Noble in the team.

His impressive performances have also attracted transfer interest, with links to both Chelsea and Manchester United over the last few transfer windows.

It is something that has led to manager David Moyes being questioned over his apparent worth and future with the Irons and his country.

When asked earlier in the month if Rice was worth over £100million, the Scotsman said: “Yeah.

"I think I've said everything there is to say about Declan. He's a really important player for West Ham, he's someone who we value greatly and you can see what he means to the team.

"He's a really good individual and we're enjoying having him."

It means that if Chelsea do want to land the midfielder in the future, it could end up costing the club a lot to sign the former academy player.

However, former Liverpool manager Graeme Souness has said he wants to see more from the England international.

Speaking on Sky Sports, Souness said: “I’d want more goals from him. In the modern game the way the pitches are, for central midfield players coming on to things they’ve got no excuses.

“The ball’s running smoothly, it’s coming to you on a carpet - he’s scored one goal this year, Declan Rice.”

Rice has managed to improve elements of his game, especially his ball carrying across the pitch.

But goals may be the next thing added, with the midfielder coming especially close against Wolves with a 25-yard shot that struck the post.

Whether he can add goals on a consistent basis remains to be seen, but it would make him an even bigger threat to opponents and an even more complete midfielder for his side.

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