Fulham FC v Arsenal FC - Premier League
Declan Rice says Premier League winger Jarrod Bowen is a ‘pleasure to watch’ (Picture: Getty)
Arsenal star Declan Rice was left blown away by Jarrod Bowen’s performance against Wolves on Monday, labelling him ‘different class’.
Bowen produced a goal and assist as West Ham secured a vital 2-1 Premier League victory over Gary O’Neil’s side at the London Stadium.
West Ham’s clash against Wolves was dubbed ‘El Sackio’ because the managers of both teams were under huge pressure heading into the game.
But a win for the Hammers has eased some of the pressure on Julen Lopetegui, with his side now moving up to 14th in the table.
After the game, an emotional Bowen dedicated the three points to teammate Michail Antonio, who was recently involved in a car accident.
‘A win that meant so much more,’ Bowen posted on Instagram next to an image of him holding up Antonio’s shirt. ‘We are all with you Michail Antonio.’
Arsenal midfielder Rice left a comment in response and wrote: ‘Different class tonight Jaz, [you were] a pleasure to watch.’
Rice and Bowen have a close friendship from their years playing together at West Ham.
The duo helped the Hammers clinch the UEFA Conference League title in 2023 under David Moyes.
ACF Fiorentina v West Ham United FC - UEFA Europa Conference League Final 2022/23
Declan Rice and Jarrod Bowen have a close friendship (Picture: Getty)
Bowen, who can be deployed as a winger or centre-forward, has conjured up four goals and four assists across 15 Premier League games this term.
Rice left West Ham in the summer of 2023 to join Arsenal in a £105m deal after establishing himself as one of the best midfielders in the top-flight.
The 25-year-old is now one of Mikel Arteta’s most important players and has played 69 games for Arsenal to date in total.
Rice provided an assist in the recent 2-0 win over Manchester United but couldn’t help Arsenal beat Fulham as they were held to a 1-1 draw on Sunday.
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