|
He still does a lot of work for his East End community, and has fond memories of his time spent at Upton Park. And he is still in touch with several players there - including Joey.
"I'm made up for Joe that he's made the squad," said the Leeds captain. "Some people think he might just be going along for the ride but he could have a big part to play.
"He's someone who can change a game in an instant and I think he's come on a lot in the last year. He knows when to play the right ball into the box now instead of messing around and beating a man just for the hell of it."
Tell us something we don't know! Joe has matured immensely this year, and there is only one aspect of his game that is still lacking - his form in front of goal. But Rome wasn't built in a day, and players take time to develop. Fans, both West Ham and England alike must remember that he is still only 20 - and the youngest member of the senior squad.
"Joe is one of the most skilful players in the country," Rio continued. "He can leave the best players flat on their backsides for fun. The plus point for us is that the world doesn't know about him. That might be the ace up our sleeves."
His talent isn't anything new however. He has been trying his tricks and flicks ever since he had a ball at his feet.
"I remember the day he joined the first-team squad for training. I knew a lot about him but watching him that day was amazing. We played a two-touch game and he scored a hat-trick. I took every opportunity to watch him playing for West Ham's youths or reserves.
"I remember to this day one match against Southend when Joe got the ball and did a trick which I cannot even describe - except to say I've only seen it once before, by Ossie Ardiles in the film Escape to Victory. It was astonishing stuff and I screamed out laughing. He's so skilful it's frightening."
And thankfully Joe has several players he can talk to at the World Cup - including both Hammers keeper David James, and Rio, who he still chats to regularly on the phone.
"Even though I'm at Leeds now we still talk a lot and you cannot imagine how much he loves football. He lives for it day and night. When he's not playing it he's watching it like me, studying skills and wanting to learn and try something new. He is a huge asset for England and won't be overawed by the World Cup. He'll absolutely love it."