Paul Scholes tells Declan Rice how he can become like Steven Gerrard

Declan Rice has already established himself as a world-class midfielder, and there is little doubt about the quality he brings to Arsenal. His performances have shown why the club paid a record-breaking transfer fee to secure his services.

Rice has arguably done enough to justify that investment even if his Arsenal career ended at the conclusion of this season. However, there is a difference between being an outstanding midfielder and becoming a genuine legend, with Steven Gerrard representing a particularly high standard.

Rice has time to build a lasting legacy

The former Liverpool captain produced iconic performances throughout his career and remains one of the names mentioned when the finest players of his generation are discussed. Rice has time to build a comparable legacy, but reaching that level will require sustained excellence.

The Arsenal midfielder already possesses many qualities associated with elite players, although Paul Scholes believes one aspect of his game could make a significant difference.

<

(Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

Scholes explains how Rice can improve

Scholes has discussed Rice and identified what he believes the midfielder needs to do to become comparable with all-action players such as Gerrard. He feels being quicker with the ball could make the Arsenal star even more difficult to stop.

Gerrard enjoyed dominant spells at Liverpool, and Scholes made his assessment clear via Metro Sport:

‘Declan Rice has been good, but I’ve probably been a bit critical of Declan a few times.

‘My only thing with Declan Rice, I still think he takes too many touches for a midfield player.

‘If he decides to just play one and two touch and run, he’ll be virtually unplayable, almost in a Steven Gerrard type of way.’

Scholes believes Rice can become even more effective by making quicker decisions in possession. If the Arsenal midfielder combines his existing qualities with sharper distribution, he could take another step towards the level of influence associated with Gerrard and strengthen his standing among the leading midfielders of his generation.

_____________________________________________________________________________________________ADMIN COMMENT

So here are some simple rules which I must insist commenters follow….

You agree not to give any personal abuse to other Arsenal fans. Everyone is allowed to hold their own opinions even if you disagree with them. It COSTS NOTHING TO BE POLITE TO OTHER ARSENAL FANS.

CALLING ALL ARSENAL FANS! Anyone who would like to contribute an Article or Video opinion piece on JustArsenal, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us through this link…