Ivan Toney has jokingly suggested Arsenal should deploy Declan Rice as a striker after the midfielder scored twice in the Gunners' 3-2 win at Bournemouth on Saturday. Rice's brace helped Arsenal extend their lead at the top of the Premier League table to six points.
Rice posted a photo on Instagram with the caption 'Brace on the road,' prompting a response from Toney, who commented 'Get him upfront' alongside two heart-eyed emojis. The 26-year-old has now scored four goals and provided five assists in 19 Premier League appearances this season.
Other players also praised Rice's performance, with Arsenal defender Jurrien Timber writing 'My bro,' and Aston Villa's Matty Cash saying 'Joke' with a fire emoji. England Women's star Chloe Kelly added 'Too good,' while Gabriel, Martin Odegaard, and Kepa Arrizabalaga also sent supportive messages.
Toney, who left Brentford for Saudi Arabian club Al-Ahli in 2024, previously played alongside Rice for England. Arsenal's victory extended their unbeaten run, with the club now holding a six-point advantage over Aston Villa and a seven-point gap to third-placed Manchester City.
The Gunners next face Liverpool at the Emirates on January 8, followed by FA Cup and League Cup ties against Portsmouth and Chelsea, respectively. A busy January also includes Premier League matches against Nottingham Forest, Manchester United, and Leeds, as well as Champions League games against Inter Milan and Kairat.
