Arteta Applauds Rice Drive as Five Gunners Make England Squad

Arteta lauds Rice's work ethic

Mikel Arteta praised Declan Rice for his desperate determination to improve after the Arsenal midfielder earned a call up to Thomas Tuchel's England squad. Rice has been in strong form this season, contributing five Premier League assists, which is the most of any player in the league. He has also scored one goal in the Champions League across 14 appearances in all competitions.

Arteta explained that the coaching staff has been working with Rice to make him a bigger threat on the pitch. The manager said Rice possesses the mentality to go out and win matches while becoming much more unpredictable. Arteta added that Rice wants to get better in every area while maintaining the high standards he has already set.

Rice's versatile skill set

Arteta agreed that Rice has strengthened his ball progression. He explained the reasoning behind dropping the 27 year old deeper into the midfield, noting that the team cannot restrict his natural qualities.

According to Arteta, Rice can drop back, progress the play, carry the ball, and perform well in transition. He also pointed to Rice's ability to win duels, deliver accurate passes, take set pieces, and score from long range. Arteta believes there is still plenty for Rice to gain as he continues to play.

Reports suggest Rice is close to signing a new deal with the club. However, Arteta revealed he does not look too far into the future during tactical conversations. He explained that focusing on short term performance and impact is enough for now.

England selections and Madueke's reaction

Rice is one of five Arsenal players selected for the England camp. He joins Ben White, Ezri Konsa, Myles Lewis-Skelly, and Eberechi Eze in the squad.

Noni Madueke was left out of Tuchel's selections, but Arteta believes the winger will use the decision to motivate himself. Arteta praised Madueke's mindset during the previous international break, when he was also left out. During that period, Madueke went abroad to train on his own to get better. Arteta said he leaves selection choices completely to Tuchel.

What it means for the next game

Arsenal vs Hull City (Premier League, Sat, 07 Nov): Arsenal win 79%, draw 14%, Hull City win 7%; expected goals 2.67 to 0.70. Our safest pick: Over 1.5 goals.