Arsenal star midfielder Declan Rice has heaped praise on manager Mikel Arteta for his transformation as a midfielder. 

The Gunners are currently in an international break, with the majority of Arteta’s first team away with their national teams. It gives Arteta the time to reflect on his start to the Premier League season with Arsenal sat atop of the Premier League table.

Based on the stellar performances of several Arsenal stars, the Gunners are the favourites to win the league title currently, and Arteta will be pleased that he’s been able to get the best out of certain names.

A lot of emphasis has been put on Arsenal’s summer signings, but the Gunners have also seen some great performances from players who were already at the Emirates before this season. One of those is Declan Rice, who has made 10 appearances so far this season, scoring one goal, and providing three assists.

Rice says Arteta has made playing for Arsenal “really easy”

The midfielder was recently one of the star performers in Thomas Tuchel’s England side, during a 3-0 win against Wales on Thursday. After the win, he told Journalists that his recent form has been down to how Arteta and Tuchel have managed him as a midfielder.

Rice was quoted in the Standard: “I can play No6 or No8,” said Rice. “I think now I am more of a box-to-box No8.

“The manager [Arteta] has adjusted my position at Arsenal a bit this year, given me a bit more freedom to drop deep but also get in the box when I can.

“It is the same with Thomas [Tuchel]. I think that really suits me on that left side of midfield. Being able to get back, being an all-round action midfielder is what I want to be and I am just enjoying my football. I have got two managers who lay it out really easy with the game plan, what I have to do and where I have to be.

“I feel really strong. I feel fit, really confident in my game and hopefully the only way is up from here for England and Arsenal.”

Arsenal fans will be hoping that Rice can continue his excellent start to the season, because he will be a big part of their challenge for a Premier League title.

Click here to see every Arsenal player away on international duty in October.