Peter Schmeichel wowed by ‘big player’ Arsenal transfer capture

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Peter Schmeichel has been left impressed by Arsenal’s transfer capture of Declan Rice and how they are going for ‘big players’.

The legendary goalkeeper added that Declan Rice will bring ‘leadership’ to the dressing room and the ability to change the outcome of games, as he told BBC Radio 5 Live Sport.

The England international joined from West Ham United for a club-record transfer fee and recently helped Arsenal beat Manchester City in the Community Shield – Arteta has been told that he has ‘upgraded’ in the middle of the park.

After a strong pre-season, it was a very healthy start for Mikel Arteta’s side and a signal that they mean serious business ahead of the new campaign.

The fact that the powers that be at Arsenal are backing Arteta again tells you everything you need to know about their trust in him – another signing could be around the corner.

But now he needs those players like Rice to back him up on the pitch, as Schmeichel spoke in glowing terms about their midfield capture.

“Signing Declan Rice, Arsenal definitely going for big players,” said Schmeichel. “Someone who, not only is a good player on the pitch, but also his leadership skills and what that brings into the dressing room.

“On the pitch, when it’s not going in the right direction or way like it did a few times towards the end of the season, then you have someone on the pitch that can really, really take charge and actually change the course and the outcome of the game.”

Rice has to deliver for Arsenal

Whilst Rice joins Arsenal on the back of helping West Ham win the Europa Conference League, it needs to be noted that the Premier League campaign didn’t go too well.

For most of the season, Rice struggled alongside his teammates, who were battling relegation before they pushed themselves away. 

Whilst he can afford to do that at the London Stadium, he won’t get such luxuries in Arsenal colours because if there are any slip-ups, then people will be ready to pounce and verbally batter the midfielder.