Grady Dianna and Declan Rice, the Academy of Football graduates spoke of their pride post being awarded Premier League Footballs for the first time. The West Ham United duo made it to the highest levels of English football as they were rewarded with special commemorative balls which were given by Terry Westley, the Academy Director, ex-Hammer Carlton Cole and the Game Program Manager of Premier League James Westlake in Rush Green. The duo made a great winning start with Diangana being handed his first game by Manuel Pellegrini in the 3-1 victory recently over Manchester United while Rice made his bow in a 2-1 victory at Burnley in 2017.
Rice has made most of this chance since his breakthrough and now trying to close in on 50 appearances in Claret & Blue. However, he knows there are a whole lot of tasks to be accomplished for the Premier League. Rice said that this first performance was indeed the most memorable one of his career as he played in the Premier League and achieved his dream as a kid. Although it was only for a few minutes, it was a special one as he came on the pitch with the likes of James Collins and Manuel Lanzini. He won at Burnley and his family was also there. It was the last day in the Sean and Rice could not wait for the upcoming season to begin.
As far as Diangana is concerned, he is determined to stay with the plans made by Pellegrini. He is grateful for the opportunity as it is something he did not really aim for. He had to be patient to build his game gradually and progress the game. Well, it is coming all together at the right time. Although he had a minor back injury during the game, and he did pick up with a few best runs in under 23-s. Now Rice believes he can make a difference in the ream and thing would definitely seem great.