Former Chelsea midfielder Andy Townsend has named Arsenal star Declan Rice as the best holding midfielder in the Premier League based on current form.
The former Republic of Ireland international placed Rice ahead of Manchester City’s Elliot Anderson and Brighton & Hove Albion’s Pascal Gross while discussing his top five defensive midfielders on talkSPORT.
Speaking alongside Jeff Stelling, Townsend explained that his selections reflected the players’ performances this season rather than their overall reputations.
Rice topped the list, with Townsend praising his physical attributes, technical ability and effectiveness when operating directly in front of the defence.
“Number one has to be Declan Rice,” Townsend said. “Because I think he’s, I still prefer Declan Rice as a six. I don’t quite see the number eight.”
The former midfielder believes Rice is particularly effective in a deeper role, despite his growing attacking influence under Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta.
Townsend acknowledged that the England international can contribute goals and assists but argued that his greatest qualities are best utilised in defensive midfield.
“When I hear people saying, ‘Oh yeah, he’s going to get forward. He’s going to score us a load of goals.’ He can do it occasionally, which is great,” he explained.
“I happen to think though when you need someone playing in front of the back four, Jeff, that can handle the ball in tight areas under pressure, he can do that.”
Townsend also highlighted Rice’s mobility, height and composure, suggesting that his combination of attributes makes him an exceptional holding midfielder.
He was particularly impressed by the 27-year-old’s contribution to Arsenal’s 1-0 victory over Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday.
Rice produced an excellent forward run before delivering the cross for Kai Havertz’s winning goal, helping Arsenal secure their first league victory at Anfield since 2012.
“He’s tall, he’s elegant, he gets across the ground very well. Great run for the weekend, the ball across the six-yard box, inch perfect for the goal,” Townsend added.
“I think there’s a lot of facets to his game. He’s been criticised by some, but not by me. I think he’s really, really good.”
Townsend placed Anderson second following his impressive performances since joining Manchester City from Nottingham Forest.
Gross completed the top three, with Brighton teammate Chema Andres fourth and Everton midfielder James Garner fifth.
The recognition comes during another influential campaign for Rice, whose performances have helped Arsenal establish a three-point advantage at the Premier League summit.
Rice has also been shortlisted for the 2026 FIFPRO Men’s World 11, underlining his standing among the game’s leading midfielders.
Townsend’s assessment reinforces the importance of Rice to Arsenal, although he believes the midfielder’s greatest value remains in a deeper position.