Arsenal: How Declan Rice’s role has changed at the Gunners

Arsenal, who host Atletico Madrid in the Champions League on Tuesday (20:00 BST), have changed their style this season to be more direct and play through defensive lines quicker, which has meant Rice moving deeper alongside Zubimendi when starting attacks.

A recruitment specialist working in top level football told BBC Sport how the signing of Zubimendi has complemented Rice’s game.

He said: “It hasn’t changed what he can do as he has done it before, but it [Zubimendi’s arrival] has given him more ability to be an all-rounder.

“He already had the ability to contribute in the holding game but now he is able to excel in attacking phases.

“His ability to take the ball on the half-turn allows his first touch to be always forward when he receives it.

“The attacking role hasn’t phased him. He has grasped it really well and you can tell it’s something he’s always had.”

Rice already has three assists and one goal in his 11 games for Arsenal this season.

For his goal against West Ham, Rice arrived late into the box to meet a bouncing ball and finish well to score Arsenal’s opener in their 2-0 win.

And the recruitment specialist believes Rice, though known for his running ability, does not get the plaudits he deserves.

“A lot of people don’t really give him the credit he is due for his athleticism,” he said. “He is extremely athletic and a good mover.

“He has the freedom to create in the attacking area of the pitch, he is excellent in holding, he is such a fluent player and performs with the freedom he has been given.

“A good player, good passing, but can also be gritty and break up play. He is a commanding midfield player.

“I like the fact that he can dictate the tempo of the game. Really good precision in his actions. He has transitioned seamlessly to a box-to-box player.”