Declan Rice shows his class to Newcastle United after 5-1 West Ham thrashing

Braces from Callum Wilson and Joelinton as well as a goal for substitute Alexander Isak saw Newcastle run riot at the London Stadium. Kurt Zouma pulled a goal back for West Ham in the first half to make it 2-1 before the hosts capitulated in the second half.

While Rice described The Magpies’ goals as some of the ‘worst’ he’s seen his side concede while he’s been playing for the club, the England midfielder still showed his class after the match as he spoke to a handful of the visiting players.

Rice spoke with England team-mate and Newcastle right-back Kieran Trippier while also shaking hands and congratulating goalscorer Joelinton as well as Allan Saint-Maximin.

"Well played,” he told the Magpies players afterwards. In the reverse fixture back in February, Rice spoke to Newcastle assistant manager Graeme Jones following the 1-1 draw. Jones coached Rice at England during the Euro 2020 campaign.

Despite the heavy defeat for West Ham, Rice was one of the only Hammers players to come away with any credit from the match.

And his performance wasn’t lost on Newcastle supporters, with one fan tweeting: “We have to bid for Rice this summer… a joy to watch.”

Another added: “Not sure who will buy Rice this summer, but jeez he’s played so so well.”

"Declan rice has to be our number one summer target. What a player,” another tweet read.

Rice won’t be short of suitors this summer with his future at West Ham uncertain. The England international is valued at £100million by The Hammers and has been the subject to transfer interest from the likes of Manchester City, Manchester United and Chelsea.

Newcastle are looking to strengthen their midfield and have also been loosely linked with Rice but this summer may just be too soon for Eddie Howe’s side to make a serious move. But Rice’s performances and respectful conduct to Newcastle after such a disappointing defeat undoubtedly makes him the type of character and player Howe would want as part of his squad.