Arsenal is now the hardest working team in the premier league – Ally McCoist
Ally McCoist believes and trusts Mikel Arteta in the Arsenal team as the hardest-working player in the Premier League.
Wingers Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli work ridiculously hard out of possession, while the full-backs pop up in all sorts of positions across the pitch.
However, McCoist has highlighted a different player whose work ethic trumps that of any other player in the English top flight.
The Spaniard has built a side that defends exceptionally well in recent seasons, and this is, in part, due to the individual players’ work rates.
For this price, the midfielder would be somewhat forgiven for having an ego and compromising some of his defensive responsibilities.
However, this couldn’t be further from representing what he is. Rice has been outstanding in his first two years in North London, and his engine, stamina and ability to cover ground is part of what makes him so impressive.
Speaking to TNT Sports on TikTok, co-commentator Ally McCoist was asked who he believes has the best work ethic in the Premier League.
Without hesitation, the Scotsman replied, “Declan Rice.”
Rice’s role has changed this season, with Arteta instructing him to sit deeper alongside Martin Zubimendi at times, rather than perennially operating on the edge of the opposition’s box like he did last season.
Not only has this seen him cover even more ground than he usually would, but this role is also getting the best out of his passing and carrying attributes.