Roy Keane has delivered his verdict on Declan Rice’s form in recent weeks – just weeks after the ex-Manchester United man questioned his leadership and mentality
Roy Keane has heaped praise on Declan Rice and claimed that the Arsenal midfielder has “stepped up to the plate” in the Premier League title run-in.
Before Arsenal went up against Manchester City last month, ex-Manchester United midfielder Keane said that Rice is not showing enough leadership for the Gunners. He added that Rice has got to “get a grip of people” as Mikel Arteta’s side wobbled in the title race.
But since the Gunners suffered a 2-1 defeat at City, Rice has been a standout performer. He impressed in Premier League matches against Newcastle United and Fulham, as well as both semi-final fixtures against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League, winning the Player of the Match in the second leg on Tuesday.
Rice has helped Arsenal put the
Keane said on Sky Sports: “Without a doubt, he has stepped up to the plate. Obviously I have had question marks over Declan – there is no doubting his quality but in terms of his leadership skills…
“But certainly over the last few weeks, even the reaction after the setback with the Man City game, he has stepped up to another level and that is what you want from your big players. He has certainly done that.”
“With all the demands on Arsenal, Declan is always available, he is available for every game,” Keane added.
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