‘I don’t think’… Jeff Stelling has now questions Declan Rice’s impact at Arsenal this season

Add as preferred source on Google

Following Arsenal’s recent slump in form under Mikel Arteta, Jeff Stelling has now been asking some surprising questions over Declan Rice.

Back to back defeats in the Premier League have caused huge concern among the Arsenal fan base.

And as well as losing six points to the likes of Liverpool and Manchester City, Arteta’s side have also looked bereft of ideas.

If the aim was to make Arsenal a more robust unit this season, well it’s certainly come at the expense of the side’s attacking flair.

One of the biggest changes at Arsenal this season was the arrival of Declan Rice, a world-class signing.

And although he’s sung his praises, Jeff Stelling wasn’t sure if Arsenal were a better side this season since Rice was added.

Speaking to Dean Saunders on talkSPORT, Stelling was surprised by the lack of progress.

He said: “I don’t know about you Deano, I don’t think they’ve been the same team this season.

“They should be better than they were last season with the addition of Declan Rice, but to me…”

Saunders replied: “Two weeks ago, Declan Rice has made them better, everyone was saying.”

Stelling: “And I love Declan Rice but I just think they should be that much better and they haven’t been!”

Jeff Stelling doesn’t think Arsenal have progressed since Declan Rice arrived

Although questions were bound to be asked of Arsenal after these displays, it’s certainly a surprise to see Rice’s name mentioned.

The England midfielder has been in extraordinary form for The Gunners, a player who has made an immediate impact.

And although some might be correct in suggesting that Arteta’s side haven’t improved this season, it’s not through Rice’s efforts.

Be it in the pivot or at the number eight, Rice has been a catalyst of strong performances, adding both finesse and defensive responsibility to performances.

And it’s perhaps the lack of goals in front of Rice that has led to Stelling’s admission that Arsenal haven’t improved since he’s come in.

Both Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah have failed to score the goals expected of them.

And unless the pair suddenly improve their returns, or Arsenal do buy in January, a title-push does look difficult.

With that being said, Gary Neville has now given his verdict on Arsenal’s chances of winning the league this season.