Ray Parlour hails Declan Rice as Arsenal's 'absolute inspiration' ahead of World Cup

Ray Parlour has lavished praise on Declan Rice, describing the Arsenal and England midfielder as an “absolute inspiration” whose willingness to do the unglamorous work sets the tone for those around him — both at club level and heading into the 2026 World Cup.

Parlour, who won three Premier League titles during his own time at Arsenal, says he was confident Rice would be a transformative signing from the moment the deal was agreed in the summer of 2024. “I remember when he was going to sign, I was at my local pub, where Mark Noble also goes,” Parlour recalls. “I was chatting to Mark and saying, ‘What’s happening then with Declan, is he going to sign?’ Because those two were good mates at West Ham and Mark said he’d heard he was. I was so pleased because I knew what a player he was.”

Noble, Rice’s former West Ham captain and close friend, gave Parlour an early indication that the midfielder’s qualities extended well beyond matchdays. “Mark was talking about how good he was around the training ground — working hard, staying focused and supporting his team-mates. That’s very important as well, because that’s where you do your hard work, that’s where you are every day. There’s a lot of young players that look up to Declan.”

Parlour credits Rice’s attitude as a decisive factor in Arsenal’s Premier League title triumph last term. “He’s been sensational, really. He’s inspiring because he’s never afraid to do the rough stuff — the horrible work, despite all the talent he has. You’ve got to really dig in sometimes and you can sense he does that. Players around him will do that too, so he’s been an absolute inspiration for the Arsenal team.”

The former Gunners stalwart also pointed to Rice’s character as equally important as his ability on the pitch. “I think he’s been a great lad to have in the dressing room, which is very important. He’s still a young lad too, so he’s got plenty more years in front of him. He can do so much more for Arsenal and for England as well. He’s a top player, and he’s a top guy, which is as important as being a top player.”

Rice started England’s opening World Cup group-stage win against Croatia and is expected to remain central to Gareth Southgate’s plans throughout the tournament, with Parlour among those backing the midfielder to help the Three Lions go deep into the competition.