Everton manager David Moyes has claimed his former club, West Ham United, accepted a cut-price deal when they sold midfield star Declan Rice to Premier League rivals Arsenal last summer.
Moyes Stands Firm on Rice's True Value
The Scot, who managed Rice during his formative years at the London Stadium, stated the England international was worth a staggering £150 million. Arsenal ultimately secured his services for a British-record fee of £105 million. "I genuinely meant it at the time — I thought Declan was £150m," Moyes revealed. "I thought we didn't get enough at West Ham."
Moyes explained that despite the Hammers' efforts to tie down their captain with lucrative new contracts, a departure became inevitable. "We had offered Declan huge contracts but we couldn't get him to stay," he said. "So the club had to do what they had to do." The Everton boss, who faces Rice this Saturday when league leaders Arsenal visit Goodison Park, joked about the reunion: "I'm still in touch with him. I am going to abuse him [on Saturday] maybe!"
Arteta Praise and Friendly Jibes
Moyes also shared his thoughts on the man in the opposite dugout, Arsenal's Mikel Arteta. The Spaniard made 209 appearances for Everton between 2004 and 2012, signed by Moyes during his first tenure at the club. "Mikel was one of my best signings," Moyes admitted.
He praised Arteta's football intellect and diverse education at clubs like Barcelona and Rangers, but also recalled his perfectionist streak. "He was a wee bit of a moaner at times as well! He wanted things done right. He was a great captain and great player for us." Moyes added with a laugh that their relationship continues now Arteta is a manager: "He has rung me, also to ask for favours. He has taken my players too cheaply in the past! He's a good lad, Mikel, and he is doing amazing."
Everton's Selection Headache Ahead of Clash
The Toffees head into the high-stakes fixture contending with a significant selection crisis. Key midfielder Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall is ruled out with a hamstring injury, while Iliman Ndiaye and Idrissa Gueye are away at the Africa Cup of Nations with Senegal.
There is some positive news, however, with Jack Grealish declared fit after a hamstring issue and midfielder Merlin Rohl returning following hernia surgery. Defender Jarrad Branthwaite remains a long-term absentee, though a return in early February is hoped for.
To ease the midfield burden, Everton are considering recalling 18-year-old Harrison Armstrong from his loan spell at Championship promotion-chasers Preston North End. Moyes has personally watched the youngster play several times for the side currently sitting third in the table.
