Mikel Arteta agreed with the claim that Declan Rice is one of the world’s best midfielders after Arsenal’s 3-2 win against Bournemouth on Saturday.
Bournemouth took the lead after just 10 minutes when Gabriel Magalhaes’ wayward pass fell to Evanilson, who was left with an easy finish with David Raya out of his goal.
Gabriel equalised for Arsenal six minutes later before two goals in the second half from Rice put Mikel Arteta’s side in front.
Junior Kroupi’s excellent strike set up a nervy finish at the Vitality Stadium but Arsenal held out for the win to go six points clear of Manchester City at the top of the Premier League.
Rice delivered a dominant midfield display alongside Martin Zubimendi and Arteta believes the high praise for the England international is justified.
When asked if Rice is one of the best midfielder’s in the world after the game, Arteta said: ‘Yes, for me yes.
‘For me the ones that we have are the best. Declan is constantly adding things to his game. He’s constantly adding things to his role in the team.
‘I don’t see where he can stop because he can still improve in a lot of areas and he wants to improve. He’s such a pivotal player for us.’
Arteta also believes Rice sent a ‘big message’ to his Arsenal teammates by making himself available for the game after missing the 4-1 win at home to Aston Villa on Tuesday due to a knee injury.
‘Every hour for him was important to be able to be available today,’ Arteta said.
‘We didn’t know for how long. So in the manner that he competed, played and on top of that scored two goals, I think it was outstanding. And a really big message for the team.’
Speaking about his absence for the Villa game, Rice said: ‘To miss that was annoying, to come back today and help the team and score two, I think the fans will be really happy.
‘And I’m happy myself that I could help out, because this team’s special and if we’re all chipping in together, I’m sure good things will happen.’
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