Former Manchester United striker Teddy Sheringham believes Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice is currently “the best English player in the Premier League.”

Some may have suggested the likes of Chelsea’s Cole Palmer, Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold or Manchester City’s Phil Foden as potential candidates but, speaking to Best Offshore Sportsbooks, Sheringham said Rice would get his vote due to his leadership:

“Declan Rice is the best English player in the Premier League. He makes a big difference to the teams that he plays in, whether he’s playing for England or Arsenal. He’s a big plus when you see his name on the team sheet. He leads by example, and he drags people along with him and says this is what we’re going to do today. I love his leadership qualities and his ability.”

“That’s what top players do. They set the example for the rest of the players to follow, and they bring people on the journey with them, having an impact on other players that improves the entire team. He’s been a fantastic signing for Arsenal, and he’s a big reason why they are where they are now and competing at the top end of the division.”

Rice has struggled somewhat in his second season at the Emirates

The 25-year-old was outstanding during his first 12 months with the Gunners after joining from West Ham for £105m in the 2023 summer transfer window.

However, most fans would agree that Rice has found it difficult to replicate that form during his second year. His recent injury has certainly not helped matters.

Arsenal have another candidate who could be regarded as the best English player

Bukayo Saka has the best WhoScored rating (7.80) in the Premier League after 11 matches which is above Palmer’s (7.58) and other potential contenders for best-performing Englishman.

Based on current form, there would be plenty of supporters who would back the winger over Rice, although they will be glad to have both in their team.

Find out who is in Arsenal’s first-team squad for the 2024/2025 season here