One former England international has taken aim at Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice after his recent performances.
Declan Rice had a difficult time at Euro 2024.
Whilst the Arsenal man started every game in the tournament for England, he was unable to consistently produce his best.
England fans felt that Rice was particularly poor in the final, when the Three Lions were outclassed by Spain.
Earlier in the competition, Rice came under fire from the media due to his displays, and ultimately he will look back upon the entire competition with regrets.
Danny Mills criticises Arsenal star Declan Rice after Euro 2024
Danny Mills, who amassed 19 caps for England in his playing days, has now singled out Rice for criticism in the wake of England’s defeat against Spain in Berlin.
Speaking to Football365, the former full-back said: “I think Declan will look at himself and be honest that he didn’t perform at the same level that he has been for Arsenal last season.”
“I think he has played a little further forward for Arsenal which has benefited him, maybe in the next tournament we will have that holding midfielder, like [Kobbie] Mainoo which will give Declan a chance to play that bit further forward and be more aggressive on the ball to dominate possession.”
The 25-year-old will be well aware that he did not hit the heights that he is capable of in Germany, but then again neither did any of his international teammates, as Gareth Southgate’s side reached the final of the competition despite turning in a string of underwhelming performances.
Why Declan Rice will be able to get back to his best for Arsenal
Rice is afforded for more freedom by Mikel Arteta when he is playing for Arsenal. Southgate’s tactics hampered Rice at times.
However, when he is back at the heart of a more attack-minded team, the former West Ham United man’s great strengths, indulging his ability to drive forward with the ball at his feet, will come back to the fore.
In the meantime, with Southgate now having left his post with the national team, Rice will be hoping that his replacement allows him to play in a more unshackled fashion. Southgate’s exit could also be good news for Ben White, with Arsenal fans now clamouring for him to come back into the fold with England too.
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