Martin Odegaard was one of the stars of the show as Arsenal beat Brighton and Hove Albion in the Premier League.
The Gunners were the favourites to win the game, but the Seagulls are never an easy side to face. They avoided defeat against Mikel Arteta’s side both home and away last season.
On Saturday, however, Arsenal came out on top, and Odegaard’s brilliant opener sent the Premier League leaders on their way.
The Norwegian was happy with his performance, but he was blown away by one of his teammates’ displays – Declan Rice.
Who was your Arsenal Man of the Match after 2-1 win against Brighton?
Martin Odegaard was seriously impressed by Declan Rice’s performance vs Brighton
Rice was forced to start at right-back for Arsenal against Brighton.
The Gunners were already without Ben White, and they lost Jurrien Timber as well before the clash on Saturday. Riccardo Calafiori also had to withdraw due to an injury.
Without a senior option available, Arteta asked Rice to play at right-back, and he accepted immediately.
As good as the former West Ham man is, there were a few concerns over how he would fare in a new role. But Rice was absolutely outstanding.
The England international didn’t put a foot wrong all game and deservedly won the Man of the Match award for his display.
Speaking after the game, Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard heaped praise on the number 41.
He told Arsenal.com: “An unbelievable performance from him [Rice]. To play right back, probably the first time in his life, and then do it the way he did it today was unbelievable, so a really, really good performance from him.
“That’s just our team; everyone is ready to do whatever it takes for the team, and that was another good example of that.”
Sum up Declan Rice’s performance at right-back in one sentence
Declan Rice’s stats at right-back for Arsenal are so impressive
Arteta was brave to deploy Rice at right-back.
Not only was he asking the England international to play in a position in which he had only played once before, but he was also weakening Arsenal in midfield by taking him off his usual role.
However, Rice was absolutely incredible from start to finish.
In his 90 minutes on the pitch, the former West Ham man completed 42 of his 47 attempted passes, maintaining a very impressive 89 per cent passing accuracy.
Rice also made three interceptions, two clearances and six recoveries in what was a phenomenal display as a full-back. (Sofascore)
Arteta will be hoping that Timber will be back against Aston Villa and Rice can return to his usual midfield role. However, it is great to know that the England star can do a great job at right-back if required.
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