Declan Rice Urged to Deliver Big Moments Like Gerrard and Lampard

Declan Rice has become the centrepiece of Arsenal’s resurgence, but former Liverpool midfielder Danny Murphy believes the Gunners’ £105 million man must now elevate his game to reach the legendary heights of Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard.

Declan Rice: The Most Complete Midfielder in Europe?

Declan Rice’s impact since his record-breaking transfer from West Ham in 2023 has been nothing short of transformative for Arsenal. His commanding presence in midfield, ability to read the game, and relentless energy have made him indispensible to Mikel Arteta’s plans. Murphy, speaking to BestBettingSites.co.uk, did not mince words in his praise: “Declan Rice is the most complete midfielder in Europe at this moment. His versatility distinguishes him—he can break up play, drive forward, set the tempo, and contribute both defensively and offensively.”

Murphy further highlighted Rice’s endurance, strength, and technical ability, describing him as the type of player any opponent would dread facing. “When Declan Rice presses, his discipline and pace create constant problems for the opposition,” Murphy noted.

The Final Step: Creating Defining Moments

Yet, for all his qualities, Murphy insists that Declan Rice must still clear one final hurdle: delivering in the game’s biggest moments, just as Gerrard and Lampard did. Both icons are remembered for their clutch performances in finals and title-deciding matches—moments that defined their legacies.

Murphy explained, “To reach Gerrard and Lampard’s level, Declan Rice needs those magic moments in major finals. Gerrard’s heroics in Istanbul and Lampard’s decisive goals in Chelsea’s title runs set them apart. The best midfielders produce when it matters most.”

Comparisons and the Weight of Expectation

The comparison is as much about mentality as it is about statistics. Gerrard remains Liverpool’s most inspirational modern figure, while Lampard is Chelsea’s all-time leading scorer—a midfielder with a knack for arriving at the right moment. Rice’s ability to control games is clear, but Murphy emphasizes that legendary status demands more than consistency. “The greats are remembered for turning the biggest matches in their team’s favour,” Murphy added.

The Tactical Evolution of Declan Rice

Rice’s development this season has given Arsenal a unique advantage: he’s proven himself capable of operating in multiple midfield roles. With new signing Martin Zubimendi providing extra stability, Rice has enjoyed greater license to surge forward, echoing the evolution of Steven Gerrard during his Liverpool days.

Murphy observed, “Rice could easily be England’s best holding midfielder or best attacking midfielder. Ideally, you’d want two of him—one to protect the back line, another to power forward. It’s reminiscent of how Gerrard started deep and evolved into a box-to-box leader.”

Demanding a Higher Goal Output

One area for improvement, according to Murphy, is Rice’s goal tally from open play. While Rice has contributed vital assists and poses a threat from set-pieces, Murphy insists that a player of his calibre should be scoring more frequently—much like Lampard, who made a career of late runs into the box and decisive finishing.

“Declan Rice is aware he should contribute more goals and assists,” said Murphy. “His technical quality is unquestionable, and he’s working hard to become a more regular scorer.”

Declan Rice’s Path to England and Arsenal Immortality

As Rice continues to anchor Arsenal’s title ambitions, the challenge is clear: maintain his extraordinary consistency while embracing the responsibility of delivering on the biggest stage. Only then will comparisons with Gerrard and Lampard truly be justified.

For Arsenal fans, Rice’s evolution offers hope that crucial moments—and perhaps silverware—are on the horizon. As he steps further into the spotlight, the pressure to deliver defining contributions in finals and title deciders will only grow.

Opinion: Is Declan Rice Ready for Icon Status?

Rice’s all-around midfield game is already among the best in Europe, but footballing immortality is forged in decisive moments. If he can add game-winning performances in finals to his already impressive résumé, there’s little doubt he will be spoken of alongside Gerrard and Lampard for years to come.

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