Taking a look back at a classic West Ham United moment on this day in history, in association with Heineken...
Former West Ham United skipper Declan Rice set the tone for a successful senior career when he made his first-team debut for the Club in a 2-1 Premier League win at Burnley on this day seven years ago.
Rice was rewarded for a hugely promising 2016/17 campaign when Slaven Bilić sent him on for the closing stages of the Hammers’ final-day victory at Turf Moor - becoming the 923rd player to pull on a West Ham shirt in the process.
Having also captained the U23s to promotion to Premier League 2 Division 1, a debut marked the next career milestone in a memorable season for Rice, whose side secured victory through goals from Sofiane Feghouli and André Ayew.
“It’s a dream come true,” the then-18-year-old told West Ham TV after the game. “Ever since I started kicking a ball, it has always been my ambition [to play in the Premier League], so my dream has come true and I’m delighted.
“My phone hasn’t stopped ringing! I just turned it on and have had so many messages already. The Academy are going to be so happy for me, and the same goes for my family as well.
“I know today is only a tiny step, so I’ve just got to keep focused and keep on a good path with the coaches around me and I’m sure I’ll go far.”
Having initially started his journey in Claret and Blue at Chadwell Heath as a 14-year-old, Rice went on to become an established member of the senior squad, and one of the greatest young talents in world football.
Winner of the Hammer of the Year award three times, in 2020, 2022 and 2023, and runner-up in 2018 and 2019, the Kingston native was named West Ham United Club Captain in the summer of 2022 following the retirement of Mark Noble, and went on to lead the team to the UEFA Europa Conference League title last season.
A key cog in the current England national team wheel, with 50 caps to his name, Rice left the Irons for Arsenal in July 2023, having scored 15 goals in 245 appearances in all competitions.
