Declan Rice showers praise on Eddie Nketiah following Arsenal reunion

Declan Rice has reunited with Eddie Nketiah at Arsenal after both played together at Chelsea as schoolboys.

The former West Ham United captain joined the Gunners in a £105 million deal this month to become their most expensive signing in history.

Rice has settled down well at his new club, with a familiar face like Nketiah helping him feel at home.

The striker is already looking forward to being at the end of the passes of the England international, and the midfielder has been impressed with his recent improvements.

“He has improved so much,” Rice told
Hayters TV.

“He has always been a top striker.

“He proved how good he was last season and is always hungry for more.”

Nketiah featured in 38 games across all competitions last term, scoring eight goals and weighing in with an assist.

The 24-year-old was linked with an exit last summer following the arrival of Gabriel Jesus, but he has managed to establish himself as an important player under manager Mikel Arteta.

Nketiah remains behind the Brazilian in the pecking order, but he continues to push the former Manchester City star.

The Arsenal academy graduate started nine of the 30 Premier League games he featured in last term and will be looking forward to playing more next season.

The Gunners need stiff competition in all positions if they are to challenge for the title next term, and having both Nketiah and Jesus available is a huge boost.

The availability of the duo has made it impossible for Folarin Balogun to break into Arteta’s plans, and the USA international is now expected to move on after returning from a brilliant loan spell at Reims last term.

Nketiah still has a lot to prove as he eyes breaking into the England national team, and the arrival of Rice could help boost his chances and improve his consistency.