'I had to make a change': Declan Rice reveals difference between Arsenal and West Ham

“At Arsenal I’m playing in a slightly different role. There’s a lot of talk over whether I can play higher up the pitch," Declan Rice said.

“At West Ham when I was more box‑to‑box, [David] Moyes used to say: ‘Roam, do what you need to do to get on the ball.’

“At Arsenal, it’s more structured and you’ve got to be more patient. We see a lot more of the ball so it’s about being more progressive.

“I had predominantly played in a side that was really good at counterattacking so I had to make a change.”

Rice moved across London to Arsenal, joining the Gunners for a club-record fee and has hit the ground running with a run of fine performances for Mikel Arteta's side.

The Englishman has already contributed four goals for his new team (two goals and two assists).