May 5th 2024.
Ian Wright couldn't contain his admiration for Arsenal's midfield star Declan Rice. The former Gunners player praised Rice's performance in their recent victory over Bournemouth, and even shared his prediction for the team's chances at winning the Premier League title.
Arsenal maintained their impressive form with a 3-0 win over Bournemouth at the Emirates Stadium, putting pressure on their title rivals Manchester City. The match saw young star Bukayo Saka score a penalty in the 45th minute, while Rice provided the assist for Leandro Trossard's second goal and even added a goal of his own in injury time.
The win put Arsenal four points clear at the top of the Premier League, but Man City quickly closed the gap to one point with their own 5-1 victory over Wolves later in the day. Wright, analyzing Arsenal's performance on BBC's Match of the Day, couldn't help but praise Rice's contribution to the team. The former West Ham player has had an "unbelievable" first season at the Emirates, according to Wright.
"He is the difference for us, in respect of being able to play any of those positions in the midfield," Wright said. "He will find himself in any situation and he will be able to deal with it."
Wright also pointed out Rice's touch map, showing how he was all over the pitch during the match. Many had questioned whether Rice could adapt to a possession-based system, but Wright believes he has proven himself capable. With Thomas Partey behind him, Rice has been able to showcase his attacking abilities as well.
"You need somebody attacking the box because that's one of the big problems for Arsenal, with Declan playing where he is in that eight, to get into the box," Wright explained. "He is getting in there and trying to get his goals."
Wright also praised Rice's ability to win the ball back and create chances for his team. "This is what he is absolutely fantastic at," he said. "He will see that, sniff that out and then make another chance – unbelievable."
The former player also highlighted Rice's "proper box-to-box play" and credited him for Arsenal's success this season. However, he also acknowledged that the title race is still in Man City's hands, with the team needing to win their remaining games to have a chance at winning the league. Wright, along with ex-Tottenham and England midfielder Jermaine Jenas, believes that Man City's strength will see them through to the end.
Arsenal will face a tough challenge next weekend with a trip to Manchester United, while Man City will take on Fulham in west London. With Liverpool technically still in the title race, Wright believes it will take a major collapse from both Arsenal and City for them to come out on top. And as the season comes to a close, fans can only hope for a miracle to see Arsenal lift the Premier League trophy for the first time in 20 years.
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