Arsenal will be preparing to welcome back their players from international duty ahead of a busy end to the season.
Arsenal players are in action around the world during the international break and Mikel Arteta will be keeping a keen eye on his men with such an important end to the season ahead.
Riccardo Calafiori requires a scan on a knee injury picked up in Italy’s UEFA Nations League clash with Germany and is a doubt for the Champions League tie with Real Madrid.
Myles Lewis-Skelly broke an England record by scoring on his first cap but its another Arsenal star who has also caught the eye not only at Wembley but in recent months for the Gunners.
Mikel Arteta reaping the rewards of ‘lighthouse’ Declan Rice
Upon signing Declan Rice, Arteta told the official Arsenal website that the midfielder was ‘going to bring the team to a different dimension.’
That has yet to occur in terms of trophies but there can be no doubting Rice’s progression in stature and performances, particularly since the turn of the calendar year for both club and country.
Many believed that Rice was more of a defensive midfielder when he signed for the Gunners and that is the role he plays for England however, the 25-year-old is adding so much more to his game going forward.
He scored the equaliser at Old Trafford against Manchester United recently and that was his fifth in all competitions this season, alongside eight assists.
Rice is becoming more accustomed to the advanced role in midfield and with his physical stature, intelligence and composure on the ball, he has all the abilities to continue to be a threat in front of goal.
Arteta stated in 2023: “I see him like a lighthouse, he will light (up) the others and improve the others, and make the team better.
“The way he talks, the ambition he has and the passion for the game is exactly what we need.” Rice is certainly delivering on these promises.
Rice statistics for England v Albania
The transformation into a more attacking threat was seen in England’s 2-0 win over Albania in a World Cup qualifier at Wembley.
Rice produced a fine cross for Harry Kane to score the second goal in the game and his overall statistics were nothing short of remarkable.
With the expected arrival of Martin Zubimendi in the summer to the Emirates Stadium, Rice’s midfield evolution may continue under Arteta.
Whatever role he is asked to play he has more than shown he is capable of not only adapting but excelling in the situation.
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