West Ham boss Moyes: Losing Rice was heavy blow

West Ham boss David Moyes admits losing Declan Rice last summer was a major blow.

Rice was sold to Arsenal for £100m before the start of the season.

Asked about a reason for their heavy defeats, Moyes said: "Declan Rice.

"When you get the best midfield player in the country, protecting [and] limiting 50% maybe of the attacks.

"When you get that, it makes you a much better defensive team. We've lacked protection in front of the back four."

West Ham boss Moyes: Losing Rice was heavy blow

West Ham boss Moyes: Losing Rice was heavy blow

West Ham boss Moyes: Losing Rice was heavy blow

West Ham boss Moyes: Losing Rice was heavy blow

West Ham boss Moyes: Losing Rice was heavy blow