The start to life in the 2017/18 Premier League could not have got off to a worse start for West Ham United.
Travelling to Old Trafford was always likely to be an ominous task but the Hammers were thrashed 4-0 by a rampant Manchester United side who were far superior on the day.
An inevitable brace from West Ham’s arch nemesis Romelu Lukaku got the ball rolling for Manchester United and a late double blow (from Anthony Martial and Paul Pogba) saw West Ham drop instantly to the bottom of the Premier League table.
One of the rare few shining lights from yesterday’s defeat was the performance of youngster Declan Rice.
Declan Rice was handed a thirty minute cameo when he replaced Mark Noble in central midfield.
The Republic of Ireland youth international looked comfortable despite being more naturally suited to the centre half role.
With 28 touches and 22 passes (at a 96% completion rate), here is how the West Ham fan base reacted to the 18-year-old’s display.
Play him Saturday
— Jamie Hall
Shame Noble came off for him and not Obiang. Slav must get himself out of these routine style subs. Starting to look inflexible.
— Matt Wisdom (@wisewordsonfood) August 14, 2017
This best not be his only match this season, would like to see him start againt the saints
— MedioNoble⚒ (@MediocreNoble) August 14, 2017
He made a very convincing case for more game time, even starts, this season.
— Iron Thompson (@at67435) August 14, 2017
Great performance @_DeclanRice should be starting on Saturday @Obiang14 had a terrible game, which is unusual, as he is always solid
— Matt Randall (@MattRandall2) August 14, 2017
Impressed with this lad when he came on yesterday. Composed passer and good positionally.
— Gareth Cooper (@ThatGarateyjc) August 14, 2017
A must start on Saturday. Great to see a player demanding the ball so much..how he's not in Ireland squad is unbelievable
— Gary Nolan (@GNolanOfficial) August 14, 2017
Reminded me of Michael Carrick coming on as a yousgster – just stronger
— Fred Goozee (@AlfredddGoozee) August 14, 2017
What a great player with so much talent and yet we hardly started him last season.
— Evan (@EvanR8Gaming) August 14, 2017
