Gary Lineker and Alan Shearer in complete agreement over ‘underappreciated’ Arsenal star

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Former England strikers Gary Lineker and Alan Shearer share the same view point about one Arsenal player. 

Arsenal had eleven players feature at Euro 2024 this summer, but as the semi-finals of the competition approach, only William Saliba, David Raya, Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice, and Aaron Ramsdale remain in Germany.

England have gradually improved as the competition has gone on, although it would be fair to say that they will still need to raise their game further if they are to win the tournament. Arsenal duo Rice and Saka have started every game for the Three Lions at Euro 2024 so far.

The latter has hogged the headlines since playing a starring role in England’s triumph over Switzerland in the quarter-finals. Arsenal fans were thrilled by Saka’s display, as he scored a crucial goal from range and also kept his cool to convert from the spot during the penalty shootout.

Meanwhile, Rice also had an important role to play. Southgate trusts the 25-year-old to protect the England rearguard. Against Switzerland, Rice came up against former Arsenal midfielder Granit Xhaka and did a good job of limiting his ability to influence and dictate the match.

Gary Lineker and Alan Shearer have now claimed that the former West Ham United man does not get the credit he deserves.

• READ MORE: Everything to know on Arsenal’s Declan Rice from his girlfriend to height

Alan Shearer and Gary Lineker have say on Arsenal star Declan Rice 

Reflecting upon the Arsenal ace’s performance against Switzerland on The Rest is Football podcast, Alan Shearer stated: “Quietly, who went under the radar, without being spectacular but did a really good job, I thought Declan Rice did that.”

Lineker then added: “Yeah, I think he’s under-appreciated, as well.”

Rice certainly isn’t under-appreciated at the Emirates Stadium. Mikel Arteta has full faith in the midfielder, and has helped him to take his game to a new level. Since his arrival at the Emirates Stadium, Rice has proven that he can make an impact at both ends of the pitch. 

Whilst he is playing in a more reserved role under Southgate, England aren’t seeing the best of what he has to offer. Southgate’s tactics hinder Rice, but even in spite of this he is able to perform a vital function within the national team.