Alan Smith shares what ‘a lot’ of West Ham fans did right after Declan Rice was substituted today 

Add as preferred source on Google

Alan Smith has claimed that ‘a lot’ of West Ham United supporters applauded Declan Rice after he was taken off today.

The 25-year-old put in a dazzling display against his former side as Arsenal thrashed David Moyes’ men 6-0.

Declan Rice grabbed two assists and netted a stunning goal from distance right before being substituted just after the hour mark.

The former Hammers midfielder started the game off by being booed by sections of the West Ham faithful.

But after being replaced by Mohamed Elneny in the 67th minute, he received applause from plenty of supporters at the London Stadium.

West Ham fans applaud Rice

Speaking on Sky Sports’ coverage of the game, commentator Rob Hawthorne noticed West Ham’s fans applauding Rice as he left the pitch. 

“It’s actually his last touch because now is time for change and even some West Ham fans are applauding Declan Rice as he leaves the pitch,” he said.

“Yeah, there’s a lot down below clapping him,” Alan Smith added.

Of course, Rice didn’t receive a standing ovation from the whole of the London Stadium. But sections of the West Ham fans were keen to show their appreciation for their former skipper. 

The Englishman didn’t exactly leave on bad terms over the summer and what he achieved with the east London club clearly hasn’t been forgotten by some fans at least. 

Rice also refused to celebrate after netting a quite stunning goal, with the midfielder showing respect for his former side.

It was a bitterly disappointing afternoon for West Ham on the whole as they were completely outclassed by Arsenal. The Hammers are going through a tough patch of form at the moment and haven’t won a game in the league this year. 

Arsenal on the other hand seem to be finding their best form at just the right time and have put themselves right back in the hunt for the Premier League title.