Arsenal’s midfield maestro, Declan Rice, has been hailed as the best English player in the Premier League by former England striker Teddy Sheringham. The accolade comes after Rice’s seamless transition to the Emirates, following his highprofile £105 million move from West Ham in July 2023.
Declan Rice Crowned Premier League’s Best English Player by Teddy Sheringham
Despite the weighty price tag, the 25-year-old has quickly become a pivotal figure in Mikel Arteta’s squad, showcasing his remarkable skills and leadership on the pitch.
Rice’s debut season with the Gunners was nothing short of spectacular. Featuring in every league game, he contributed 17 goals across all competitions, cementing his role as a central cog in Arsenal’s midfield.
His performances not only silenced critics but also endeared him to the Arsenal faithful. His influence was further highlighted during the summer as he played every minute for England at Euro 2024, helping the Three Lions reach the final.
However, Rice’s journey this season has had its challenges. A red card against Brighton in the third game of the season saw him sidelined, a blow that was keenly felt as Arsenal suffered a 1-0 defeat to Inter Milan in the Champions League.
Despite this setback, Rice returned to club duties with determination, playing 71 minutes in a hard-fought 1-1 draw with Chelsea. Unfortunately, a broken toe has ruled him out of the current international break, leaving a void in Lee Carsley’s England squad.
Sheringham’s praise for Rice is not without reason. Speaking to Best Offshore Sportsbooks, he said, “Declan Rice is the best English player in the Premier League. He makes a big difference to the teams that he plays in, whether he’s playing for England or Arsenal. He’s a big plus when you see his name on the team sheet. He leads by example and drags people along with him. I love his leadership qualities and his ability.”
Despite these plaudits, not everyone is convinced by Rice’s performances this season. Former Arsenal midfielder Emmanuel Petit voiced his concerns, suggesting that Rice has struggled to hit his usual high standards.
Speaking to Instant Casino, Petit remarked, “Declan Rice is the player that I’ve expected more from this season. I think he’s been struggling from the start. The red card he received in August was probably a sign. I hope he comes back stronger, but he’s been below par so far.”
Rice is expected to make a comeback after the international break when Arsenal hosts Nottingham Forest at the Emirates. His return will undoubtedly be a boost for the Gunners as they continue their quest for Premier League glory.
As the debate continues over Rice’s form, one thing is clear: his presence on the field is missed by both club and country, underscoring his importance as one of the Premier League’s top talents.
With the season still in its early stages, there is ample time for Rice to reclaim his best form and once again prove why he is considered one of England’s finest.
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