Declan Rice will leave West Ham to play for a Champions League club in the near future, according to former Manchester United defender Gary Neville.

The Lowdown: Rice continues to shine

The 22-year-old has matured into one of the Premier League's most consistent midfielders, also becoming a key man for England.

Rice was outstanding in the Hammers' 1-0 win away to Everton on Sunday afternoon, deservedly taking home the Man of the Match award in the process.

The Latest: Neville makes key claim

Speaking on Sky Sports' Monday Night Football [via West Ham Zone], Neville and Jamie Carragher discussed the quality of the West Ham man.

The former United right-back claimed that Rice will soon be at a bigger club performing at a higher level, in order to reach his potential:

"I think the development will be at some point, and West Ham fans won’t like me saying this, that he’ll somehow have to obviously transfer to a club that’s going to the Champions League, where he plays in midfield with high expectations, where he’s playing against teams that are dropping deep every week."

The Verdict: Tough to argue

In an ideal world, Rice would remain at West Ham for another decade and inspire them to countless trophies, but that may be wishful thinking.

In truth, the time will likely come when a huge bid is made for the midfielder from one of the country's biggest clubs and his head may be turned.

Hammers supporters should certainly enjoy Rice while they can, as he continues to play at an incredible level.

In other news, some West Ham fans were critical of one player against Everton. Read more here.