“What an insane footballer”, “Has three lungs” - Arsenal fans salute ‘brilliant player’ for changing the game in 2-0 win over Wolves
Arsenal fans reserved a great deal of praise for midfielder Declan Rice following his role in the side's 2-0 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday, April 20. The result sends the Gunners back to the summit of the Premier League, having played a game more than title rivals Manchester City and Liverpool.
The Gunners' season was on the verge of slipping into oblivion following a run of three games without a win. They lost at home to Aston Villa in the league before going to Germany, where Bayern Munich defeated them in the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals.
The Gunners needed a response against a weakened Wolves side, and they delivered with a goal in both halves. Summer signing Declan Rice was once again pivotal for the side as they claimed all three points on offer at the Molineux.
For much of this season, Rice has been a game-changer for Arteta's team, and his excellence in midfield allowed his team to thrive further forward. Playing in the same position he did against Villa last Sunday, the 25-year-old was at the heart of everything good his side did, especially the second goal.
The former West Ham man's performance impressed the fans, who shared their feelings via X.
Here are some more posts from X:
"Declan Rice with an insane last 15 minutes of this game. Three lungs," a fan said.
"Declan Rice has played out of his skin. Incredible effort despite the fatigue," one fan stated.
"Declan Rice won this game. Just went into another gear in the last 8mins. Completely changed the game," another added.
"DECLAN RICE APPRECIATION POST," one fan wrote.
The win for Arsenal was enough to send them back to the summit of the league, having picked up 74 points this season from 33 games.
Arsenal down Wolves to reach PL summit
Declan Rice impressed for Arsenal away from home against Wolves, who had five teenagers on the bench. 15-year-old star Wesley Okoduwa also made the squad but never came off the bench.
Leandro Trossard opened the scoring for Arteta's side, showing his ruthless nature in front of goal. The Gunners found a second late in the game through captain Martin Odegaard in added time.
Arsenal dominated the ball against Wolves with 55% possession and out-shot their opponents 24 to five.
The Gunners will now turn their attention towards Chelsea. Arsenal will host the Blues on April 23 in the Premier League.