Declan Rice says that watching videos of Yaya Toure has given him the self-belief needed to have more of an impact in attacking areas.
The defensive midfielder has had a fine season at West Ham, helping them to challenge for a shock top-four finish.
His form has also sparked further rumours of a potential transfer away from his boyhood club, with both Manchester City and Manchester United having been linked with interest in the 22-year-old alongside Chelsea.
This season, Rice has added a further string to his bow, developing into a box-to-box midfielder at times and having more of an influence in the final third of the pitch.
Speaking after the Hammers' victory over Leeds United, Rice explained that videos of Toure and Patrick Vieira have inspired him to try and carry the ball into forward areas more than he used to do, having previously made his name as a defensive midfielder who can also cover at the back.
"I think a lot of people see me as a simple, basic player who gets it, gives it and protects the back four," Rice told Sky Sports.
"I know, my team-mates know and the manager knows what I’ve got in my locker.
"I want to show that I can be exciting and I can take the ball forward. I have great athleticism."
He added: "I’ve been watching the top players over the years, the Yaya Toures, the Vieiras.
"There’s a long way to go to get to that level.
"But the way they used to carry the ball up the pitch and drive their teams forward is something I have been trying to learn and add to my game."
