"Unbelievable": Mikel Arteta blown away by Arsenal star who made 10 recoveries vs Everton

Arsenal reclaimed their top spot in the Premier League following a 1-0 win over Everton at the Hill Dickinson Stadium on Saturday.

The Gunners shared the spoils against the Toffees in both meetings last season, but sealed a victory from the penalty spot yesterday.

Viktor Gyokeres converted the spot-kick awarded after Jake O’Brien’s handball.

The Gunners should have doubled their advantage. Both Leandro Trossard and Martin Zubimendi hit the woodwork during the second half.

Bukayo Saka was denied a goal by a brilliant clearance by James Tarkowski.

Arsenal were lucky to secure a 1-0 win in the end, as William Saliba got away with a foul on Thierno Barry in the box before the hour mark.

Speaking after the game, manager Mikel Arteta hailed the performance of midfielder Declan Rice, who made 20 defensive contributions.

The Spanish tactician said that the 26-year-old was ‘unbelievable’ and he is a ‘massive player’ for the club.

He told Arsenal.com: “Unbelievable, his all-round play, his leadership on the pitch, the amount of balls that he regained as well that allowed us to run; he has been incredibly consistent this year again, and what a massive player for us he is.” 

Rice won seven duels, including 100 percent of his aerials. He also made 10 recoveries, four clearances, three interceptions and won a couple of tackles.

He was also exceptional with his distribution, completing 90 percent of his passes (87/97).

The Englishman provided the corner which contributed to the penalty, but he should have had an assist as well. Trossard unfortunately hit the post with a curling effort.

Rice is currently enjoying the best phase of his career and needs to sustain his run of form as the Gunners look to maintain and increase their slender two-point lead at the top of the table.

Arsenal will be in Carabao Cup quarter-final action against Crystal Palace at home on Tuesday night. Arteta is expected to make wholesale changes, and Rice could start on the bench.

Stats from Fotmob.com

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