Man Utd target Declan Rice compared to 'young Steven Gerrard' after West Ham draw

West Ham midfielder Declan Rice has been likened to a 'young Steven Gerrard' amid persistent links with Manchester United.

Rice, 23, has evolved into one of the Premier League's most complete midfielders, spearheading West Ham's European charge this season.

David Moyes' men were frustrated by Newcastle as they were held to a 1-1 draw at the London Stadium on Saturday, dealing a significant blow to their Champions League hopes.

Rice, who has been imperious for much of the season, was at fault with a rare error as his misplaced header led to Joe Willock's equaliser for the relegation-threatened Magpies after Craig Dawson's opener.

But before the game, Rice was lauded for his outstanding individual performances and growth by BT Sport pundits Rio Ferdinand and Joe Cole.

The former England internationals are impressed by all-action Rice's constant thirst for improvement.

Rice has netted four goals this season and has added a distinct attacking threat to his game.

Former Chelsea star Cole even likened his development to Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard.

"He’s so mobile, he’s like a young Steven Gerrard. He’s come on bundles," Cole said.

Ferdinand added: "I think the key word there is improving, that’s when of his biggest desire is just to keep analysing his game, always looking to add parts to his game.

"What you’d associate with a holding midfielder is play it there, play it there and stay, but he now wants to affect the game, he doesn’t just want to be sitting on the edge of the box.

"He wants to be a Yaya Toure type player. It’s his attitude, the way he leads, the way he drives."

The Red Devils seem desperate for midfield reinforcements this summer and Rice is said to be high up on the list of Old Trafford targets.

But