Former Arsenal striker Ian Wright has praised the midfield partnership between Thomas Partey and Declan Rice, highlighting how Partey’s presence allows Rice to flourish in his role.
Wright, who was a pundit on Sky Sports, noted that Rice benefits from playing alongside Partey, who provides precise passes and enables Rice to contribute more to Arsenal’s attack.
In their second start together, the midfield trio of Partey, Rice, and Martin Odegaard produced an outstanding performance in Arsenal’s 5-0 win over Chelsea.
Partey provided the pre-assist for two goals, while Rice created the opening goal with a run from deep midfield, following a Partey pass. Odegaard bagged two assists, including a standout pass for Kai Havertz’s second goal.
Wright observed that with Partey at the base of the midfield, Rice has the freedom to roam and cover areas that enhance Arsenal’s overall performance.
““Declan Rice can play as a six and eight and he has done that for England and Arsenal but when you have someone like Thomas Partey, it gives him the freedom to go forward and he contributes more. He (Declan Rice) has goals in him and is also big and strong. He can progress the ball and run with it. “He can affect situations in the final third. He is showing what he can do as a number 8 because he has Partey covering behind him. When he is with Partey, it helps bring the attacking talent out of him.”
The trio is expected to start for Arsenal in their upcoming Premier League match against Tottenham on April 28, 2024.
