David O’Leary hails ‘fantastic’ Arsenal star who has been ‘a revelation’ this season

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Arsenal are competing at the top end of the Premier League and in the latter stages of the Champions League, with plenty of outstanding performers.

Mikel Arteta’s side have been on fire in 2024, winning eight of their last nine Premier League games, whilst scoring heavily and remaining resolute at the back.

Plenty of players have received praise, with William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes now recognised as two of the best centre-backs in Europe, and Bukayo Saka continuing to shine going forward.

However, there has arguably been one player better than all of them, and Arsenal legend David O’Leary has now hailed him for the impact he has had this season.

READ MORE: Arsenal’s possible route to 2023/24 Champions League final

David O’Leary praises Declan Rice for Arsenal impact

Speaking on TalkSPORT (03/04/24, 09.11 am) the former centre-back, who is Arsenal’s all-time record appearance maker, praised Rice for his performances since joining from West Ham.

“I think Declan Rice has had a fantastic effect,” he stated.

“He’s been so consistent, so high-standard all season. He’s been a revelation.”

Rice has made 40 appearances for Arsenal across all competitions, starting nearly every single game, and has already recorded a career-best six goals and six assists in the Premier League.

Declan Rice has had major impact on Arsenal

In addition to his improved output going forward, Rice has helped Arsenal improve as a defensive unit.

Sunday’s draw at Man City saw Arsenal put in a highly disciplined performance, where both Saliba and Gabriel were near-flawless, and Rice was also a crucial part of this.

His physicality in the middle of the park allows Arsenal to both gain and keep possession with ease, and he engaged in some intriguing battles with Rodri in midfield.

The England star has excelled in two roles, both at the base of midfield and going forward, and he has hardly had a single bad game since joining.

There is little doubt over who Arsenal’s player of the season will end up being, and should Arsenal go on to win the Premier League this season, Rice has a strong case to be named as the league’s best performer over the course of the campaign.