Rice moved to Arsenal last summer for a club-record £105m ($137m) and has been integral to the Gunners’ title charge this season. He scored, assisted and was named man of the match on Saturday as his side saw off Bournemouth 3-0. In contrast, Moyes’ West Ham were on the receiving end of a 5-0 demolition at the hands of Chelsea a day later. When asked why the Hammers were struggling this season, Moyes said the answer is clear.

Asked why his side have been so poor away from home, Moyes said: “Declan Rice.

“When you’ve got the best midfield player in the country protecting, probably limiting 50 per cent of their attacks it makes you much a better defensive team.

“We’ve lacked protection in front of the back four, lacked good enough defending, not been good enough at those things in many games.”

• THE BIGGER PICTURE

  West Ham brought in James Ward-Prowse and Edson Alvarez to replace the void left by Rice in the middle of the park and had success initially. However, as West Ham’s performances and results – particularly away from home – have declined, it is clear the loss of Rice has been incredibly damaging.

• WHAT NEXT FOR MOYES AND RICE?

  Moyes can do Rice a favour on the final day of the season as they face Manchester City. Arsenal need their title rivals to draw at least one of their remaining three games to have a chance of winning the title. Should City see off the threat of Fulham and Spurs, it will all be on the Hammers to stop City from winning a fourth consecutive Premier League title.

  West Ham are in a downward spiral at present, however, and questions are being asked over Moyes’ position, with former Wolves boss Julen Lopetegui reportedly in the frame to replace him. Moyes issued a defiant statement when quizzed on his future, though, telling reporters: “I’m going to talk to the board at the end of the season, so we’ll do that then.”