Why Declan Rice is not playing for West Ham as Liverpool handed huge boost

West Ham have been handed a massive blow for their clash against Liverpool at Anfield (17.30).

The Hammers are without Declan Rice against the Reds.

The England international is regarded as one of the best midfielders in the Premier League.

However, he misses out against Jurgen Klopp’s side through illness, with ex-Everton man Nikola Vlašić replacing Rice.

Rice wrote on Twitter: “Absolutely gutted to be missing today’s game through illness. Come on boys!”

Rice is one of three changes for West Ham after their FA Cup loss to Southampton in midweek.

Aaron Cresswell, who was on Liverpool’s books as a schoolboy, returns from a knock and Lukasz Fabiański is back between the post.

Meanwhile, Liverpool have made eight changes from Wednesday’s 3-1 victory over Norwich City.