Former stars praise Rice's influence and leadership
Ahead of England's FIFA World Cup 2026 round-of-32 clash against DR Congo, several former English football stars have heaped praise on Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice, hailing him as among the "top echelon of midfield players" and a player who elevates his teammates.
England will face DR Congo in Atlanta on Wednesday for a spot in the pre-quarterfinals. Rice, 27, has made two World Cup starts and provided one assist, making him a vital cog in the team's pursuit of success.
Stefan Schwarz: 'He is world-class already'
Former Arsenal star Stefan Schwarz told Goal.com, "He is world-class already. You can see what influence he has when Arsenal plays and even England." Schwarz emphasized Rice's selfless style, saying, "He is not just playing for himself. Of course, he wants to have very good performances, and he is very consistent on a high level, but what makes him great is how much he improves his teammates around him with his own performances, with his leadership skills and communication. He is a great, great leader whom you always want to have in your team to be successful."
Peter Reid: 'Top echelon of midfield players'
Former England international Peter Reid compared Rice to legendary midfielder Bryan Robson, stating, "Top player, top player. Bryan Robson was a top player, so if I am mentioning them two in the same breath, it just shows you how I regard Declan Rice. Terrific footballer. I have seen a lot of talk about comparing him to Bryan Robson. I think he is up there." Reid also placed Rice alongside Steven Gerrard, saying, "I mean, Stevie G was an outstanding footballer, brilliant. He is up there in the top echelon of midfield players. Both sides of the game - getting the ball, handling the football, reading the situations, defensively, and attacking-wise. You do not get any better."
Henry Lansbury: 'A bit like Roy Keane'
Former Arsenal star Henry Lansbury drew comparisons between Rice and Manchester United legend Roy Keane, expressing a desire to see Rice given the captain's armband. Lansbury told GOAL, "Big statement, best in the world, but he is definitely up there. He has come into that role and really gripped it for himself, and he looks phenomenal in that team." He added, "I really want them to give him the captain's armband and make him the focal point of that team and build around him because he is a bit like a Roy Keane of Man United, isn't he? He could really grip that up and put the armband on and take that team to the next level."
Rice's performances have drawn widespread acclaim as England prepares for a crucial knockout-stage match against DR Congo.
