After a period of playing a pivotal role in the national team, the Arsenal midfielder was rewarded.
According to Daily Mail, Declan Rice has been named to the England team’s staff. This is seen as a move to strengthen the importance of the 24-year-old midfielder under Gareth Southgate.
Currently, besides the former West Ham midfielder, the group of “Three Lions” leadership players includes Harry Kane, Kieran Trippier, Harry Maguire, Kyle Walker and Jordan Henderson. Among them, Kane often wears the captain’s armband. With Jude Bellingham’s outstanding maturity, the possibility that the 2003 midfielder will also be considered in the staff ranks cannot be ruled out.
Declan Rice is in high form this season. The former West Ham captain was called up to the England team by coach Gareth Southgate in November and started the match against North Macedonia on November 21.
Rice just joined Arsenal from West Ham, for 127 million USD with 7 million in add-ons. The 24-year-old midfielder broke the record of most expensive English player of all time set by Jack Grealish, the star playing for Man City. Last season, Rice and West Ham won the Conference League.
Since moving to Arsenal from West Ham, Declan Rice has played an important role in Mikel Arteta’s system. The 1999-born midfielder is used in both the No. 8 and No. 6 roles. Rice’s presence helps increase the safety level of interception ability in Arsenal’s midfield.
This weekend, Rice’s “Gunners” travel to Gtech Community Stadium to face host Brentford. A victory will help Mikel Arteta and his team threaten Manchester City’s top spot.