Topics: Declan Rice, Rio Ferdinand, Arsenal, Football
Rio Ferdinand and Jermaine Jenas agreed on the Premier League player of the season so far as they issued high praise.
Before Chelsea's thrilling 3-2 victory over Luton Town on Saturday, TNT Sports pundits Ferdinand and Jenas gave their mid-season awards.
And the former Manchester United defender and the ex-Newcastle United player were in agreement when they discussed the player of the season so far.
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Ferdinand and Jenas both named Declan Rice, who joined Arsenal from West Ham United for a club-record £105 million last summer.
Rice has starred for the Gunners this season, having played 19 league games, scoring three goals - including a last-minute winner against Luton earlier this month.
It's also a sentiment echoed by Match of the Day pundit Alan Shearer and Sky Sports' Jamie Carragher, who called him the most influential player in the Premier League this season.
Jenas said: "I'm looking at Declan Rice, it’s difficult to ignore Declan Rice and [William] Saliba.
"I think Declan Rice in particular, his contribution, big fee on his head, a lot of pressure, a lot of eyeballs looking at him and how he’s going to deliver.
"I think if we’re looking at his performance from mid-season to now, he’s a difficult one to top."
Ferdinand added: "I can’t go too far away from Declan. As an impact player to a team and the difference that he’s made. Has there been anybody else that has made a bigger impact?
"With the price tag as well, that £100m. How many of us are sitting on TV in the media, at home, around bars talking like 'It’s big money. Big price tag'.
"No one mentions it, that’s a testament to his performance."
Rice has helped Arsenal mount a title challenge with his powerful performances in midfield.
Though he was unable to inspire his side to victory against his old team West Ham in their last outing.
He will be looking to turn things around when they face Fulham on Sunday.
