Jason Cundy ‘stunned’ by fan’s Declan Rice explosion as Arsenal falter in Premier League title race
Declan Rice has been thrown under the bus completely after Arsenal dropped two important points against Brentford on Thursday.
While the most optimistic fans will see it as a point gained on the road, Pep Guardiola and Man City are likely to be boosted by the 1-1 result at the Gtech Community Stadium on 12 February.
During the game, Arsenal fans made Martin Zubimendi a scapegoat on social media, but this fan in particular has aimed a lot of blame at the feet of England’s No.4.
Rice had a couple of chances to put the game to bed after Noni Madueke’s opener, but with Keane Lewis-Potter evening up the score in the final 20 minutes, Mikel Arteta’s side were forced to settle for a point.
Declan Rice the victim as Arsenal fans grow nervous
The Gunners slipped up in the Premier League once again, and the nerves are beginning to show. Man City are just four points behind, with the two sides yet to meet at the Etihad Stadium this term.
Speaking to talkSPORT (13 February), one Arsenal fan rang in to say: “I’m not saying he’s not good… But I’m sorry. Declan Rice is not being looked at for his performances. Declan Rice is just as big a problem.“
He then went on to explain that the England international’s decisiveness has been costing Arsenal games.
Completely taken aback by the caller’s thoughts, Cundy said, “I’m stunned at this phone call. Declan Rice will chip in with goals. But you’re talking about when he passes instead of hitting the ball, right?
“Declan Rice this season has been immense. I’m stunned that this is your go-to. Arsenal fans are imploding. I think he’s in the running for Team of the Season.”
Rice’s stats completely disprove the post-match criticism
Rice has rarely put a foot wrong, and with four goals and three assists in 25 league games, he has played a significant role in getting the Gunners to the top of the Premier League table.
In 90 minutes against Brentford, he completed 93 per cent of his passes, created three chances, had 84 touches, and completed 100 per cent of his attempted long balls [FotMob].
As well as his positives in the final third, the international midfielder also won 80 per cent of his ground duels, 100 per cent of his aerial duels, and all without committing a single foul.
With seven recoveries, three clearances and two tackles, Rice was absolutely everywhere against Brentford, but for some reason, his performance went under the radar.
He technically lost the ball, which led to a huge chance for Igor Thiago, but that can be put down to a terrible pass out to him from goalkeeper David Raya.