4 duels won, 89% pass completion: 24-year-old Arsenal man was still brilliant despite Newcastle defeat yesterday

Although Arsenal fell to their first defeat of the league season against Newcastle yesterday, Declan Rice was still superb in his work.

Despite often being tasked with a defensive role, Rice ended up being Arsenal’s most creative outlet on a difficult night.

The £105m midfielder demonstrated all of his skill-set, often creating pockets of space with his marauding runs.

And although the likes of Gabriel Martinelli, Bukayo Saka and Eddie Nketiah were struggling to take advantage of those situations, Rice was fulfilling his role well.

According to Sofascore, the England international was able to win four duels, make five clearances and complete one interception.

Moreover, Rice completed 89% of his passes, took 73 touches, and completed two dribbles as Arsenal lost to Newcastle.

Stats that aren’t befitting of a losing player.

Jamie Carragher made some interesting comments on Arsenal’s evolution this season in the aftermath of the defeat yesterday.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Carragher said that Arsenal have become a better unit defensively, but are now looking less creative in attack.

And although Rice, a defensive midfielder, is playing in a more advanced role, he simply can’t take any blame.

Rice was still superb for Arsenal in loss against Newcastle

After consecutive defeats, Mikel Arteta must now be worried about his side’s attacking displays this season.

Martin Odegaard was missed yesterday, but Arsenal still had plenty of talent on the pitch.

Kai Havertz had some good moments despite his usual criticism, but ultimately couldn’t prove decisive.

Fabio Vieira was introduced late in the game, but is now showing little signs of his early season form.

Arsenal are far from a crisis, but their performances should be causing a slight concern,

Mikel Arteta will perhaps rightly blame the officials for yesterday’s defeat – even if Alan Shearer disagrees.

But Arsenal lacked creativity and quality up top against Newcastle, despite Rice’s efforts to force something for his new side.

The Gunners do now enjoy a better run of fixtures, and Arteta will be keen to see a quick turnaround.