Paul Merson has previewed Arsenal’s Premier League meeting with Crystal Palace and made a big claim about one of Mikel Arteta’s players when doing so.
The Gunners are dominating the Premier League in several areas this season, most notably when it comes to their defensive record and ability to score from set-pieces.
They go into the Crystal Palace tie looking to maintain their spot at the top of the table, and are title favourites in the eyes of several pundits.
[
Click to subscribe to the podcast ](https://www.youtube.com/@BeyondTheBackFour?sub_confirmation=1)
Palace are in good form as well, but Merson thinks his former side will still edge out a win on Saturday.
The Premier League trophy on show at the Community Shield.
Photo by Michael Regan – The FA/The FA via Getty Images
Paul Merson says Declan Rice best in Premier League
When previewing Sunday’s meeting for Sportskeeda, the ex-Middlesbrough ace claimed that Declan Rice is the best number eight in the Premier League.
He did give a special mention to Chelsea’s Enzo Fernandez, but suggested the Argentine is not as good defensively.
Merson said: “Declan Rice affects the game more than any other midfielder playing the no.8 role in the Premier League. As an all-round package who contributes at both ends of the pitch, I don’t see anyone better than him.
“Enzo Fernandez is good when he goes forward with the ball, but he can’t do what Rice does in defence, no way.”
Rice was lauded by Merson earlier this week as well after a stellar showing in the Champions League versus Atletico Madrid.
Frank Lampard wanted the Arsenal midfielder at Chelsea. But he’s now one of the Gunners’ best players and could be key to their title success this season, which Merson also commented on.
Declan Rice during Arsenal's Premier League clash with Newcastle.
Photo by George Wood/Getty Images
Merson predicts Arsenal vs Crystal Palace score
He said: “Arsenal are so efficient and they have quality players. I’d be shocked if they don’t win the league from here. Arsenal steamrolled Atletico Madrid in the Champions League. Who does that to Diego Simeone’s team? Atletico were 2-0 down against Liverpool and drew 2-2 before eventually losing 3-2. When they went 2-0 down to Arsenal, it felt like game over already.
“Arsenal are mind-blowing at the back and they have some nice fixtures coming up. In fact, Arsenal don’t play Manchester City or Liverpool until the New Year. The title race could be all over by then!”
In terms of Sunday’s fixture, Merson predicted Arsenal to emerge with a 2-0 win over the Eagles.