Jamie Carragher backs Declan Rice as Premier League's top midfielder

Jamie Carragher has asserted that Declan Rice is the Premier League's foremost midfield player, stating that any comparison with Moises Caicedo is now settled. Carragher's assessment follows Rice's impactful performance during Arsenal's recent victory over Liverpool, where the midfielder contributed an assist for Kai Havertz's goal.

Carragher's Verdict on Rice

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Speaking on Sky Sports' Super Sunday post-show, Carragher stated, "He’s the best midfield player in the Premier League by a long way. It’s not even a debate." He added that while a comparison between Rice and Caicedo was debated last season, the Arsenal player has now established a clear superiority. Carragher described Rice as a "world class midfield player" and one of the finest to have played for Arsenal, placing him alongside club legends such as Patrick Vieira.

Contrasting Views on Rice

Carragher's strong endorsement contrasts with recent criticisms from Graeme Souness. Souness, speaking on Football Uncensored, questioned Rice's completeness as a midfielder, suggesting he might be better suited to a different role. Souness commented on Rice's perceived lack of pace and passing range, stating, "He isn’t the complete midfield player."

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Rice, who joined Arsenal from West Ham in the summer of 2023 for a fee exceeding £100 million, has become a key figure for his club. Moises Caicedo also moved to Chelsea in the same transfer window for a comparable sum from Brighton.