Arteta Praises Rice's Drive to Improve

Mikel Arteta has commended Declan Rice for his intense focus on getting better. The 27-year-old midfielder earned a spot in Thomas Tuchel's England squad as one of five Arsenal players selected. Rice has recorded five Premier League assists this season, the highest total in the competition, along with a Champions League goal across 14 appearances in all competitions.

Arteta noted Rice's strengthened ball progression and explained the decision to deploy him deeper at times. He pointed to the player's ability to drop back, carry the ball, win duels, deliver passes from various positions, contribute on set pieces and shoot from long range. The manager stressed that Rice remains committed to adding new elements to his game while preserving his existing strengths.

Arteta also addressed Noni Madueke's omission from the squad. He highlighted the forward's positive response during a previous exclusion, when Madueke trained abroad to continue his development. The other Arsenal players called up are Ben White, Ezri Konsa, Myles Lewis-Skelly and Eberechi Eze. Arteta said he leaves selection decisions to Tuchel.