Arsenal take on Bournemouth at the Emirates Stadium.
Jurrien Timber missed the game with a knock sustained in the Champions League first leg against PSG and was replaced by Ben White at right back.
Thomas Partey also returned to the Arsenal midfield but early chances were squandered by both sides until Martin Odegaard produced a moment of magic with a wonderful reverse pass.
Declan Rice was on the end of Odegaard’s wizardry and he rounded the keeper to fire home the opening goal. Arsenal fans have been full of praise for the midfielder following his outstanding first half.
Arsenal fans in ‘awe’ of Declan Rice
Rice has been everywhere during the first half and relishing being back in his usual advanced role in midfield.
Arsenal fans took to X to show their appreciation for their record signing, one fan wrote: “I’m in awe of Declan rice every single time.”
Another Gunners fan wrote: “Declan Rice is NOT the arsenal captain but LEADS like one, he is just incredible.”
Meanwhile, one fan believes that Rice has been the most influential player all season for the team, they wrote: “I think Declan rice’s back is genuinely sore from carrying this team all season. You saw him holding it as he went into the tunnel.”
Declan Rice revels in Thomas Partey’s return
Rice was asked to play in the more defensive role against PSG in the Champions League but following Partey’s return to the side, he moved back into his more advanced role.
The England international had two chances before his opening goal and was often the furthest player forward for Mikel Arteta’s side.
His eighth goal of the season is now his best ever goal return in his senior career and highlights his improvement in an attacking sense.
The Rice, Partey, Odegaard combination is going to be crucial to any hopes that Arsenal have of turning around their tie against PSG.
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