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There’s no denying the talent Declan Rice has, and that’s why some of the biggest clubs in England are said to be fighting to sign the West Ham United star.

The 24-year-old international is widely seen as one of the best defensive midfielders in the country, but the Hammers will do everything in their power to keep him.

If he does leave West Ham, he will likely do so for a very large fee, but that doesn’t necessarily mean he would be adequately replaced either.

Either way, his rise in football has been impressive, and it’s no surprise to see younger footballers in England using him as an inspiration, although it is a bit more eyebrow raising when they come from Italy.

One of those is Andrea Palella, currently in Genoa’s U19s, who recently got the chance to train with the first-team.

He spoke about it to Numero Diez, relayed by Pianeta Genoa, which is when he was asked about his inspirations and mentioned the West Ham star.

Palella said: “I really like Declan Rice’s playing style from West Ham.”

He was also questioned about what Italian football should do to increase its status and return to the top: “Give us young people more confidence and allow us to make mistakes.”