You will talk about West Ham star Declan Rice a lot in future years! Manuel Pellegrini hails midfielder's maturity

Manuel Pellegrini says West Ham star Declan Rice will only get better after once again improving in the win over Crystal Palace.

The midfielder was the only positive in a woeful first-half before the Hammers sprung to life with three goals in the first 20 minutes following the break.

While talks over a new deal have been put on hold until the end of the season, the 19-year-old is certainly not allowing his contract situation, nor the decision over his international allegiance, to impact performances.

"Declan has a great future, in this moment he is a very mature player," Pellegrini said. "At 19 years old it is not easy, he needs to learn a lot about how to play better in that position but in every ball he gives all in the 95 minutes, he has good recovery and a good technique.

"I think we are seeing a player that you must talk about a lot in future years.

"He must try to have a better technique. It is a position, a tactical position, maybe the most tactical in the team because he must be involved in defending, covering the space and in the other side he must have a good build up with good technique so I think he has both things that he will do it better in every game he plays."

After being assured that a half time substitution at Anfield on the opening day of the season, before being omitted from the matchday squad altogether the following week, would not impact his place in the side, Rice has become essential to Pellegrini's plans.

With a hectic festive schedule, the Chilean has no concerns over his fitness, suggesting his young midfielder would be able head out dancing after two Premier League games and still be fresh, though Fortnite is perhaps more in vogue than a night on the tiles in the East End.

"He deserves to play every game," Pellegrini continued. "Maybe in this week and during December when we have to play seven games and in January another six, some games maybe he will have to rest. But he is 19, at that age you are never tired. You don’t need to rest, you can play two games, after that you go and dance."

While the Hammers' boss was quick to point out Rice is a better with football boots on his feet than anything else, it seems clear he'll be keeping the tempo in Pellegrini's midfield for a long time to come.