Jack Wilshere believes Declan Rice 'could play for any team in Europe' and is a better midfielder than Liverpool's Fabinho.
The England international, 23, once again impressed as West Ham earned a 1-1 draw with Lyon in the first leg of their UEFA Europa League quarter-final, despite playing with 10 men for all of the second-half.
And former Arsenal midfielder Wilshere, who briefly played alongside Rice for the Hammers, is in no doubt of his potential.
Wilshere tweeted on Thursday night: 'Tell me a better DMF [defensive midfielder] than Declan Rice right now? Can't think of anyone [who] can do what Dec can...'
When someone replied and suggested Fabinho was the better player, Wilshere responded: 'Doesn't have the presence Dec has. Dec can do everything and more.'
Later, the former England midfielder wrote: '[Sergio] Busquets is the only one 3 or 4 years ago. And remember he played in a team that dominated possession in every game.
'Dec's job is harder in this team. He could play in any team in Europe. Fact. Let's hope it's Arsenal.'
Rice enjoyed an excellent Euro 2020 as England reached the final and has continued that form into a memorable campaign for West Ham, who are pushing for a top four finish in the Premier League and European glory.
He has scored four times and contributed four assists in 40 appearances for his club this season.
Amid reports that Chelsea and Manchester United are interested in signing Rice, Hammers manager David Moyes claimed recently the club wouldn't accept less than £150million for the midfielder.
Moyes said: 'The first thing to say is that he is not for sale. But if you are interested, it will be north of that, because £100m was cheap last summer and £150m just now would be minimum - but he is not for sale.'
Wilshere had an injury-plagued spell with West Ham between 2018 and 20220, making just 19 appearances, and is now with the Danish club AGF.
West Ham's Europa League quarter-final is finely balanced after a dramatic night at the London Stadium.
Aaron Cresswell was controversially sent off in first-half stoppage time after being adjudged to be the last man when he brought down Moussa Dembele.
Jarrod Bowen's deflected shot gave West Ham a surprise lead seven minutes after half-time but Tanguy Ndombele ensured the tie is all-square heading into the return leg in France next Thursday.
