Arsenal take on PSG in a huge Champions League clash.
Thomas Partey’s suspension has meant that Mikel Merino has dropped into midfield whilst Leandro Trossard joins Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli in attack.
Arsenal will be looking to expose PSG’s weakness at set pieces and with the deliveries of Saka and Declan Rice that will be an area to watch out for.
Mikel Arteta will be looking for his players to show leadership and responsibility and although Martin Odegaard captains the team, another Arsenal star has set an incredible example for his team mates.
What Declan Rice told his Arsenal team mates before PSG clash
Martin Keown lauded Rice after his performances against Real Madrid and the Gunners midfielder has shown another act of incredible leadership.
During the pre-match huddle, Rice was seen taking charge of the team talk with his team mates and gave a resounding message to the squad.
Rice stated: “”If we don’t have the ball, we die”
His words fell of deaf eyes during the opening exchanges of the game as Ousmane Dembele had the freedom of the park to fire PSG into an early lead.
Declan Rice Arsenal stats this season
Ian Wright says Rice was disrespected against Real Madrid but it was the England international who had the last laugh in the tie.
It was two sensational displays across the tie that added to his incredible form for Arteta’s side this year and his influence on the side grows stronger with every game.
| Declan Rice Arsenal record this season | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
| Rice | 47 | 7 | 10 |
There have been some calls for Rice to replace Odegaard as the Gunners skipper but he leads by example in the dressing room with his presence on the pitch.
If the Gunners are to create history and reach their first Champions League final since 2006, Rice will no doubt play an influential role.
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