Former Arsenal striker Alan Smith has delivered a stark warning to his old club, stating that midfielder Declan Rice is the only 'irreplaceable' player in Mikel Arteta's squad as they chase a first Premier League crown since 2004.
The Heart of the Title Challenge
Speaking to Metro.co.uk on behalf of BestBettingSites, Smith analysed the Gunners' formidable start to the season. Arsenal have amassed 26 points from their first 11 league games, sitting four points clear at the summit and conceding a mere five goals. Their resolve will be tested this Sunday in a crucial north London derby against rivals Tottenham.
While Smith believes the title race is now a 'two-horse race' between Arsenal and Manchester City, with Liverpool faltering, he emphasised that the team's depth has been impressive. He pointed to the seamless cover for injured players like Martin Odegaard, with Eberechi Eze stepping in without a drop in quality.
Why Rice is the Key Cog
However, Smith was unequivocal about the one area where Arsenal lack sufficient cover. 'Declan Rice would be a big loss if he got injured,' Smith stated. 'You would lose that drive in midfield and his set-piece ability which has become so important. They haven’t really got anybody to replace Rice.'
Since his £105 million move from West Ham in 2023, Rice has been a near-ever-present fixture, establishing himself as one of the world's elite midfielders. Smith contrasted Rice's situation with the defensive unit, where players like Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapie have provided reliable cover.
Dixon Echoes the Sentiment
Smith's assessment was strongly supported by another Arsenal hero, Lee Dixon. Speaking to Metro on behalf of OLBG, Dixon acknowledged the squad's overall strength but agreed on Rice's unique status.
'The squad is so strong and has two players for each position,' Dixon said. 'Looking at the cover they’ve got in every position, the one player they don’t really have a replacement for is Declan Rice.'
Dixon elaborated on the English international's multifaceted role, describing him as the 'heart and soul of Arsenal’s midfield' who links the defence and attack. He also highlighted a specific, game-changing skill: 'He’s probably the best corner-taker in world football. Nobody takes a corner like he does. He sticks it underneath the crossbar every single time.'
Both legends concur that while Arsenal are well-equipped for a sustained title challenge, their hopes could hinge on the fitness of their most vital asset, Declan Rice.
