West Ham United star Declan Rice believes that leaving Chelsea was the best thing that happened to him.

The youngster was axed at 14 by the London club, who believed he was not good enough.

But Rice joined West Ham soon after and he has not looked back since.

The English international has starred in the Premier League at 20, being linked with moves to top clubs like Manchester United.

"I heard about the historic pathway at West Ham, that you would get a chance if you were good enough," said Rice in an interview with the Evening Standard.

"They were also the best team at my age group when I left Chelsea.

"It was the best decision I've ever made."