Fan called out live on air over disrespect for Rice after saying West Ham are now better

West Ham fan Scott phoned into The Sports Bar with Cundy and Jamie O'Hara to give his explanation for West Ham's recent run of form.

"This is quite controversial, but I actually think we're a better team without Declan Rice," he said. "Look at us this season compared to last season - we lost the first three games last season!"

David Moyes' side have had a strong start to the season, picking up wins against Brighton, Chelsea and Luton, and they currently sit sixth in the Premier League table.

West Ham also opened their Europa League campaign with a 3-1 win over Backa Topola, meaning their only loss this season has been to Manchester City.

Scott said: "Listen, everyone's going to get beaten by Man City."

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And he insisted that losing Rice to Arsenal had contributed to the team's form so far this season.

"I think the whole team was too reliant on Declan Rice," he said. "Everyone would look at him to lead us - he would dictate where he wants to play on the team."

But ex-Chelsea man Cundy was left fuming at Scott's treatment of Rice.

He told Scott: "I think you need to show a little bit more respect for a captain that won the first trophy in a lifetime for some West Ham fans.

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"And - I'm going to say it every time - show some respect!"

Rice made 204 appearances for West Ham and captained the club to victory last season in the UEFA Europa Conference League.

He became one of only three captains - alongside Bobby Moore and Billy Bonds - to have led the club to a major trophy.

And the England midfielder has settled in well at Arsenal, notably giving them a crucial lead in their 3-1 victory over Manchester United.

Arsenal, who currently sit fourth in the League table, will be hoping new signing Rice can win them some silverware too, as they look to go one better than their second-place finish last season.