Although Arsenal and Declan Rice ended up securing a straightforward win over Burnley on Saturday, there was a surprise at full-time.
Almost immediately after the full-time whistle was blown at Arsenal by referee Michael Oliver, the ball came cannoning over and struck the ref on the head.
Coming with quite a velocity, there was some concern from those around Oliver.
Declan Rice was in close proximity to Oliver at the time, and his reaction is now catching the attention of many.
Whilst some players turned away, Rice looked visibly concerned for the referee, looking as if he felt the blow himself.
Luckily, it did seem as if Michael Oliver was unscathed from the unfortunate incident, which can be seen at 10:48 on Arsenal’s ‘Access All Areas’.
Of course, Rice had just completed another excellent performance in Arsenal’s win over Burnley.
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And although these levels are expected of a £105m signing, it shouldn’t be understated just how quickly he has settled.
Despite also learning a new position at number eight, Rice has found his world-class levels so seamlessly.
Rice demonstrated his world-class ability once again as Arsenal beat Burnley
Given Rice’s new found versatility under Mikel Arteta, it will now be interesting to see if Gareth Southgate is tempted to experiment in England’s coming games.
Southgate does seem understandably set on Rice playing in the pivot, but the option is now there.
Of course, Rice moving positions for his country could actually cause more problems that it solves – an opinion that is still held by some Arsenal fans.
Although Rice is playing well as an eight, some would still prefer the England international to play in his familiar role.
Rice did admit himself that he feels best in the pivot, even if he’s excited to expand his skillset.
From Arteta’s point of view, he must feel his team is now a lot more robust with the midfielder playing a box to box role on the left.
And given how well Jorginho played against Burnley, Arteta does have the freedom to experiment with Rice’s positioning at Arsenal.