Declan Rice has launched a passionate defence of Arsenal teammate Viktor Gyokeres, insisting the Gunners would not be leading the Premier League without the Swedish striker, despite his recent struggles in front of goal.
Rice's Brace Seals Vital Win Amid Striker's Frustration
The England midfielder was the hero on the south coast on Sunday 04 January 2026, scoring twice in a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Bournemouth to keep Mikel Arteta's side at the summit. However, the match saw Gyokeres' frustration continue, as his open-play goal drought extended to nine matches before he was substituted in the second half.
Since his high-profile move from Sporting CP, a transfer that could eventually be worth £63.5 million, Gyokeres has managed just four goals in 18 Premier League appearances this season, with seven in all competitions. This is a stark contrast to his phenomenal record of 97 goals in 102 games for his former club.
'One of the Best in the World' - Rice's Bold Claim
Despite the statistics, Rice was unequivocal in his praise for the forward's overall contribution. "He's one of the best strikers in the world," Rice declared. "Trust me, he's doing unbelievably for us, and we wouldn't be where we are without him."
Rice explained the challenges Gyokeres faces, stating: "It's tough for him, because he's got two defenders on him all game, all over him. Defenders in the Premier League want to be able to stop Viktor Gyokeres." He highlighted a key moment from the Bournemouth win, crediting Gyokeres for his role in the opening goal after a flick-on from Gabriel Martinelli.
"Without him making that run... and holding it, setting it off to Martin [Odegaard], that goal wouldn't happen," Rice added. "That was a pivotal moment in the game for us to turn the game on its head."
Personal Milestone and Praise from the Manager
Rice's performance was particularly impressive as he shook off a knee injury that kept him out of the midweek win against Aston Villa. His two-goal haul marked his first ever Premier League brace in his 296th appearance in the competition.
After the match, manager Mikel Arteta said the 26-year-old England international must now be considered among the best midfielders in the world. Rice expressed his own satisfaction, saying: "To miss the game was annoying, so to come back and help the team, and score two... I'm happy myself that I could help out because this team's special."
For Bournemouth, the defeat marked an 11th consecutive league match without a win. A small positive was a spectacular 25-yard strike from 19-year-old Junior Kroupi, which set up a nervy finish. Teammate Marcus Tavernier hailed the youngster as a "generational talent" with an "unbelievable future ahead of him."
As Arsenal continue their push to end a 22-year wait for the Premier League title, the support for Gyokeres from within the camp remains resolute, with Rice adamant that the striker's all-round play is proving invaluable to their championship challenge.
