Tottenham cult hero Rafael van der Vaart slams England star, calls him ‘useless’ after England’s loss to Spain

England’s loss to Spain in the Euro 2024 final has resulted in Declan Rice being derided as “useless” and unworthy of his high price tag.

Rafael van der Vaart, a former Tottenham midfielder and Netherlands legend, has expressed his scepticism regarding the 25-year-old’s position in the Three Lions team.

Rice was the starting midfielder in England’s 2-1 loss to Spain on Sunday night, marking the second consecutive European Championship final in which he has been defeated.

He has been a consistent performer for England in Germany; however, he encountered difficulty against Luis de la Fuente’s team at the Olympiastadion.

Van der Vaart, the former Real Madrid maestro, has responded with a fervent rebuke, asserting that Arsenal’s acquisition of him last summer was not justified.

The player was acquired by the Gunners from West Ham in a £100 million deal, with an additional £5 million to be paid in prospective add-ons.

Despite Rice’s widespread recognition as one of the most significant signings of the 2023/24 season, Van der Vaart does not believe that the money was well spent, as a result of his manner of play.

The 41-year-old stated on Dutch TV channel NOS following the Euro 2024 final, “£100M for Declan Rice.”

“What is his occupation?” He arrives to retrieve a ball, but he promptly returns it to John Stones.

“He is ineffective.” If you are genuinely worth £100 million, you should be able to advance the ball.

Rice was the starting midfielder for each of England’s seven matches at Euro 2024, where he was partnered with three distinct midfielders in the centre of the field.

Before Conor Gallagher replaced him, he began the tournament with Trent Alexander-Arnold. For the final four matches, he was partnered with Kobbie Mainoo.

Last month, Arsenal legend Emmanuel Petit disclosed to talkSPORT that Rice has been a “victim” of Gareth Southgate’s tactics.

He observed, “I am at a loss to identify Declan Rice.” His performance with Arsenal during the previous season was exceptional. As a commander, he has been participating.

“He consistently demonstrated a mastery of the pitch, accepting responsibility.” I observed him consistently falling back on central defenders during the match against Denmark.

“He was also unable to construct the game from the back when he had the opportunity.”

“And I never observed him attempting to assist the attack and emulate Arsenal’s approach.”

“Consequently, I believe that he lacks confidence.” There are numerous miles that he is traversing on the pitch. He is the sole individual who has done so.

“So it’s not the same Declan Rice, but I think he’s a victim of the structure, the tactics, and the players he’s got around him in midfield.”