West Ham are ‘stronger’ after selling Declan Rice – David Moyes says ahead of Arsenal Clash

However, West Ham has demonstrated a strong campaign of their own, poised to reclaim a spot in the Premier League’s top six should they secure at least a point during their upcoming clash in north London on Thursday.

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Ahead of that match, Moyes feels his side are better off without 24-year-old midfielder Rice as the Hammers boss said: ‘From our standpoint, we had to go again and it can make you stronger and make you grow.

‘In many ways, that’s what we’ve done. We’ve had to go out and find new players, who we thought could help us, and I think we’ve done it well.’

Moyes remains a massive fan of Rice, though, and insists that he will always be in West Ham hearts.

‘We’re all pleased for Declan Rice,’ Moyes added. ‘No one ever doubted his ability and, while we won’t be cheering him on against us on Thursday evening, we’re always looking out for him.

‘I said right from the start that I thought Declan Rice was a top player and I thought his value could have been greater. We got the price we wanted though, and Dec got the move he wanted, so it was a move that worked for both parties.

‘I think Declan would make any team more mature and improve any team in the Premier League so I think their current levels are partially to do with him right now.’