Former Tottenham Hotspur player Tim Sherwood claims Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice is a massive upgrade to Granit Xhaka.
The midfielder had an excellent season last year, having captained West Ham United to UEFA Europa Conference League glory. He scored five goals and registered four assists in over 50 games across all competitions, also earning 43 caps with the England national team.
The Gunners broke the bank to secure the services of the Englishman. Since arriving at the Emirates, the midfielder has not put a foot wrong. He has hit the ground running right from his first game and also won Arsenal’s Player of the Month award for August. His first goal for the club was a late winner against Manchester United earlier this month, helping the Gunners remain unbeaten in the Premier League.
Sherwood feels the former West Ham man is an outstanding addition to the midfield. He also claims Rice will become an Arsenal legend when he leaves the club. While speaking on the No Tippy Tappy Football Podcast, he said:
“He’s a massive upgrade on Xhaka who was there for Arsenal last season. It is a big improvement to the midfield and he has taken to it like a duck to water.”
“Declan is one of the players who everyone loves, fans love him, teammates love him and ultimately the manager always loves him. He was a legend when he left Arsenal and he will be a legend when he leaves Arsenal.”
Arsenal Fever View:
When the north Londoners signed the midfielder for a club-record £105 million, fans were concerned about the hefty price tag. But, after just seven games in an Arsenal shirt, he seems to be worth every penny.
Rice is an imposing figure in Arsenal’s midfield. He provides cover to the backline by breaking up the opposition’s attack seamlessly. He has transformed the Gunners’ midfield into one of the best in the Premier League.
Although the 24-year-old is a proven match-winner, not many expected him to have such a great start to life in north London. He has fitted into Mikel Arteta’s system perfectly and brings the best out of the players around him.
Meanwhile, Arsenal marked their return to the Champions League with an emphatic 4-0 win over PSV. They will hope to carry the same form into the weekend, as they host their North London neighbors Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday.
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