Noble: Rice the best we’ve had

MARK NOBLE has played with some huge characters and some immensely talented footballers in an 18-year career with West Ham.

But, according to the 35-year-old (below), speaking ahead of his final home game before he retires this summer, none has been better than current team-mate Declan Rice.

“It’s a tough question because

they’re all different positions,” said Noble, when asked to name the best player he has played with.

“But, just because of my relationship with him – and I have respect for so many of the boys I’ve played with – I’m going to say Dec. And I don’t think he has reached his full potential yet.

“The way he drives with the ball, the way he wins the ball back – he is such a good leader for a young age.”

Noble cites Steven Gerrard as

‘best opponent’ and, of his list of things to do in retirement, adds: “It sounds silly, but just sitting at a bar on a Friday night watching a pre-season game sounds nice.”