How Arsenal’s dominance led them to victory against Manchester United after Timber and Saliba goals

It hasn’t been the easiest of seasons for Arsenal’s central midfielder. There was a hint of a hangover after his stunning efforts last campaign, and a long run in the Euros, with not much pre-season to set him up to go again. Rice endured the frustration of his controversial red card for pushing the ball away to delay a restart, suspension for the north London derby and a broken toe which he is currently playing through.

Arsenal’s midfield needed something to lift them from their first-half flatness against United. Perhaps it was partly the awareness of covering for the changes at left back and left centre, so Rice was extra careful to drop in and help.

In the second half, Rice rose to the occasion. If this caliber of performance shows he has braced himself for the challenges ahead, it can only be good news for Arsenal.

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