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Most people think of Declan Rice as the man who breaks up opposition attacks, wins tackles and protects Arsenal's defence. Fair enough. That's what made him such an important signing in the first place.
But there's another side to his game that's becoming increasingly difficult for opponents to ignore.
Five assists in nine Premier League appearances is an impressive return for a midfielder who isn't usually the first name you'd associate with Arsenal's creativity. Even more interesting is that all five have come from open play.
His latest contribution set up Kai Havertz for the only goal at Anfield. That's a pretty useful way to settle a big match, especially away from home.
I think Mikel Arteta has something worth exploring here. Rice has the ability to arrive in dangerous positions, pick the right pass and cause defenders problems when they least expect it.
There's a slight catch, though.
The further forward Rice goes, the more responsibility somebody else has to take behind him. Arsenal cannot afford to leave a motorway-sized gap in midfield against teams with quick attackers. Imagine giving Mohamed Salah or another dangerous forward that kind of space. It could get ugly very quickly.
Still, I'd rather see Rice playing with freedom than keeping him permanently chained to defensive duties.
Who would you trust to cover for Rice when he gets forward?
But there's another side to his game that's becoming increasingly difficult for opponents to ignore.
Five assists in nine Premier League appearances is an impressive return for a midfielder who isn't usually the first name you'd associate with Arsenal's creativity. Even more interesting is that all five have come from open play.
His latest contribution set up Kai Havertz for the only goal at Anfield. That's a pretty useful way to settle a big match, especially away from home.
I think Mikel Arteta has something worth exploring here. Rice has the ability to arrive in dangerous positions, pick the right pass and cause defenders problems when they least expect it.
There's a slight catch, though.
The further forward Rice goes, the more responsibility somebody else has to take behind him. Arsenal cannot afford to leave a motorway-sized gap in midfield against teams with quick attackers. Imagine giving Mohamed Salah or another dangerous forward that kind of space. It could get ugly very quickly.
Still, I'd rather see Rice playing with freedom than keeping him permanently chained to defensive duties.
Who would you trust to cover for Rice when he gets forward?
