Frank Lampard believes that his former Chelsea target, Declan Rice, is among the finest defensive midfielders in world football.

Speaking to the BBC Football Daily podcast, Lampard lauded the 22-year-old for his standing within the game’s very best.

Rice has grown in status and stature in a very short space of time, meaning his stock is sky high.

He helped the Hammers to Europa League qualification last term, missing just six Premier League games in the process.

His next mission is aiding England to European Championship glory.

Gareth Southgate started the midfielder – who is largely regarded as one of his undroppable figures – in all three group games.

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