Declan Rice was the standout player as Arsenal claimed a narrow 1-0 victory over Liverpool at Anfield, with the England midfielder making a telling comment about his team-mates after the final whistle
Declan Rice
Declan Rice delivered a message after Arsenal's win over Liverpool(Image: Sky Sports)
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Declan Rice demonstrated his character with a message to his Arsenal team-mates just moments after their hard-fought victory over Liverpool. Kai Havertz's early finish proved the difference for the Gunners, who claimed their first win at Anfield since 2012 and moved two points clear of Manchester City at the summit of the Premier League table.
Rice was the standout performer, with the England midfielder central to everything Arsenal did throughout the contest. He provided the assist for Havertz's opener, which arrived after Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker surrendered possession in a perilous position.
The 27-year-old was rewarded for his commanding display with the player of the match accolade. However, he was quick to stress that he was far from the only notable contributor for Arsenal.
Speaking on Sky Sports, he said: "This can go to anyone today." Rice added: "That defensive line we have, that togetherness we have, it's nothing like I have seen before.
"The manager had a really honest conversation with me, he still thinks I can do more for this club and this badge. This season so far I've been feeling really good. We spoke about overlaps before the game.
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"I spoke to this guy [Havertz] about attacking the box with real aggression. He was there, and he nearly could have had another one with the same action, so I'm so happy for him because he deserved that goal today.
"It's always tiring and tough coming here. It's my first win here as a player, so it's demanding."
Jamie Carragher heaped praise upon Rice following the final whistle. The Sky Sports pundit declared that the England star ranks among the top midfielders Arsenal have ever had.
Declan Rice of Arsenal
Rice was praised following his display against Liverpool at Anfield(Image: Stuart MacFarlane, Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
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"He's the best midfield player in the Premier League by a long way, it's not even a debate," the Liverpool legend said. "Last season there was a debate with [Moises] Caicedo, but it's not even a debate. Declan Rice is the best midfield player in this country.
"I'm not an Arsenal fan, but sometimes I hear people speak about him and I'm sort of flabbergasted that they don't understand football and they're not watching the same game as me.
"He's a world-class midfield player. There's absolutely no doubt about it. One of the best midfield players Arsenal have ever had. They've had some obviously great ones and he's right up there with the best of them."