Former Fulham captain Danny Murphy has defended West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice.

Murphy was reacting after Manchester United legend Roy Keane pulled apart Rice's game on Sunday ahead of England's Euros qualifying win over Kosovo.

"Rice has been West Ham's best player for the last season and a half," Murphy said on TalkSport.

"I think his positional play is good and he spots danger very well."

Keane previously stated: "There's plenty of aspects Declan Rice needs to improve. Where do I start?

"I worked with him for the Republic of Ireland. His positional play (needs work), I don't think he's been consistent enough, he's sloppy in possession, he doesn't chase runners."