Arteta challenges Rice to unleash scoring threat against former club West Ham

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has praised Declan Rice's impressive adaptation to the Gunners but believes the midfielder can still "go to other levels" in one key area: goal contributions.

Speaking ahead of Arsenal's crucial Premier League clash against West Ham, Rice's former club, Arteta highlighted the 24-year-old's intelligence and leadership qualities. However, he also pointed to Rice's potential to contribute more on the attacking front.

"He's shown that he has an eye for goals when he is in the opponents' box," Arteta stated. "He is a real threat. That is something that can be developed."

While Rice has netted three goals in 18 Premier League appearances so far this season, Arteta clearly wants him to become a more consistent attacking threat. This could involve him making more dangerous runs into the box or contributing with assists from deeper positions.

Despite this focus on improvement, Arteta was quick to shower Rice with praise. "I love his presence on the pitch, he's got something special," the manager declared. "Playing as a No 8 he can be an incredible player."

The upcoming match against West Ham will be a big test for Rice, both emotionally and strategically. He will be eager to prove his worth against his former club and help Arsenal reclaim the top spot in the Premier League table. With Arteta pushing him to unlock his full attacking potential, this could be a defining moment in Rice's burgeoning career.

Will Rice rise to the occasion and add more goals to his repertoire against West Ham? Tune in to find out!