Mikel Arteta has warned there is “much more” to come from Arsenal star Declan Rice ahead of his reunion wit West Ham United this evening. The Hammers will travel to the Emirates Stadium for the London derby against the Gunners.Arsenal are hoping to reclaim top spot in the Premier League table with a win against David Moyes’ side. Liverpool moved back into first following their 2-0 win against Burnley on Boxing Day – two points ahead of the Gunners.
Rice was pivotal in helping Arsenal take a point from their trip to Anfield last weekend – once again proving why he cost the Gunners a whopping £105million fee in the summer. The England international will now take on his former side for the second time this season after featuring as a substitute in the Carabao Cup defeat against the Hammers back in November.
Arteta believes that Rice can add more goals and assists to his game, despite already netting three times this season. Speaking in his press conference this week, the Arsenal boss said: “When they put the price-tag you have to carry that and it is not easy.
“He has done it in a brilliant way. He is a really humble guy and the way that he wants to learn and take positive criticism is really powerful.
“He has other levels to go. I love his presence on the pitch. He’s there and he’s got something special. I felt it when I played against him, that’s why I was mad to sign him.
“You get a feeling about players and I wanted him to be part of our team. He is playing more as a deeper role in the last few weeks but playing as a No.8 he can be an incredible player, he can be a centre back if he needs to step in if we need to.
“He has shown that he has an eye for goals when he is in the opponent’s box he is a real threat. That is something that can be developed, his leadership skill the way that he will naturally grow in the team and club in the years to come, there is much more from him.”
