Arsenal head into their clash against Manchester City with serious questions over their attacking play.
The Premier League leaders have struggled for fluency in recent weeks, and their forward line has not looked as cohesive as it should.
That has raised concerns at a crucial stage of the title race.
Paul Merson is one of the pundits who has noticed it, and he believes only one player is showing any real freedom on the pitch – Declan Rice.
Paul Merson says Declan Rice is the only expressive Arsenal player
Arsenal’s recent performances have lacked spark, particularly in attacking areas, where there has been almost no creativity or urgency.
That lack of expression has made Arsenal’s attack predictable and easier to defend against.
Merson believes this could either be down to Mikel Arteta’s tactical instructions or the pressure of the title race.
However, one player has looked much different than the others, claims Merson – Rice.
The pundit thinks he is the only player who has been expressive on the pitch.
He said on Sportskeeda: “Mikel Arteta is the only person who can tell if he’s asking these players to play in a certain way or are they actually going into their shells due to the pressure.
“Apart from Declan Rice, I don’t see anyone else being expressive on the pitch.
“There is no pace in that team, no urgency, no desire to get inside the box. They look nervous and what a bad time to be that way.”
That is a concerning assessment, especially ahead of such a big game.
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Eberechi Eze must take creative responsibility against Manchester City
Rice has played in a more advanced role in midfield, but he is not a number 10.
Eberechi Eze is that player right now, and he needs to step up in a big way by using his ability to unlock defences and bring energy to the attack.
The former Crystal Palace man is one of the few players in the Arsenal squad who can beat defenders, carry the ball forward and create something out of nothing.
Against a side like Manchester City, Arsenal will need moments of individual brilliance to make the difference.
If Eze can take responsibility, demand the ball in key areas and have an impact in the final third, the game could swing in Arsenal’s favour.
That is exactly what Arteta needs in what is the biggest game of the season on Sunday.
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