David Moyes Blames Arsenal Star for West Ham's Away Woes This Season

• West Ham suffered a 5-0 defeat away at Chelsea on Sunday
• David Moyes says losing Declan Rice key to poor displays
• Arsenal are in the hunt for the EPL title with the Englishman

David Moyes attributed West Ham's string of heavy away defeats this season to the absence of Declan Rice, following his team's 5-0 defeat against Chelsea on Sunday.

The first half saw West Ham deliver a dismal performance, with Cole Palmer, Conor Gallagher, and Noni Madueke putting Chelsea three goals ahead by halftime, while Nicolas Jackson struck twice after the break.

The loss at Stamford Bridge marked the sixth occasion this season where West Ham conceded four or more goals away from home and their fifth loss in six away games across all competitions.

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The Hammers have currently conceded 70 goals in the Premier League, marking the highest tally in a single campaign under Moyes' management.

The Scottish gaffer holds the belief that Declan Rice's departure, as he moved to Arsenal in a £105 million deal last summer, has significantly contributed to his team's lacklustre defensive performance this season.

What Moyes said after Chelsea loss

When questioned about the reasons behind his team's dismal away form, the ex-Man United boss stated via Skysports:

"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.”

Who replaced Rice at West Ham?

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The Hammers initially sought to fill Declan Rice's absence in midfield by acquiring James Ward-Prowse and Edson Alvarez, achieving some success, per GOAL.

However, with West Ham's performances and results, particularly away from home, declining, it's evident that Rice's departure has had a profoundly damaging impact.

Why Rice snubbed Man City move

Earlier, Sports Brief reported on Pep Guardiola finally opening up on Manchester City's failed pursuit to sign Declan Rice during the summer.

Rice was the subject of an intense transfer battle pitting top Premier League clubs, including Man United, Liverpool, City, and Arsenal.

City are said to have launched an £80 million bid to sign the England international from West Ham United.