Troy Deeney isn’t known for throwing compliments around and more so to Arsenal. In fact, the ex-Watford hard man usually calls out what players aren’t doing right often than not. However, this time, even he couldn’t hold back. Declan Rice, Arsenal’s midfield powerhouse, has impressed him so much that Deeney reckons football might actually be getting too easy for the England international.
Arsenal’s £100 million man has been running the show this season, bossing midfields, scoring big goals, and leading by example. His latest strike against former club West Ham was just another reminder that he’s worth every penny of that record fee.
Speaking to the BBC, Deeney said:
“Great goal for Arsenal against his old club. Gets his finish and drives the team forward, but I think, and this is a compliment, that he can do more. Strange to say for someone worth £100million, but it looks like football is starting to become too easy for him. Arsenal will need him not only in the Premier League but the Champions League as well. Excellent performance.”
That’s serious praise from one of football’s toughest critics. And Deeney isn’t wrong; Rice has been untouchable in midfield. Calm under pressure, ruthless in the tackle, and full of drive, he’s become the heartbeat of Mikel Arteta’s title-chasing side.
The 26-year-old’s consistency is frightening. Whether it’s Premier League or Champions League, Rice rarely puts a foot wrong. For both Arsenal and England, he’s the man who makes everything tick, the player you just can’t drop.
Now 2 years on from his blockbuster move, Rice looks like an absolute steal. £100 million? Arsenal fans would probably pay double now. If Deeney’s right and football really is getting too easy for him, then the rest of the league better watch out, Declan Rice is only just getting started.
