Declan Rice has praised Marcus Rashford's ability to make an impact from the substitutes' bench, which could be valuable for Arsenal as they look to strengthen their attack. On Saturday night, Rashford started in England's 2-0 victory over Panama.
What happened?
Rashford scored after coming off the bench in the opening fixture against Croatia and injected energy as a substitute against Ghana. This earned him a place in the starting XI for the match against Panama.
Rice was full of praise for Rashford's impact, particularly during their tricky encounter against Ghana. He said the team found solutions in the last 10 minutes, but were probably unlucky not to score.
Why it matters for Declan Rice
Rice's comments shed light on what Rashford could contribute to Arsenal when they face sides that sit deep and defend. England struggled to break down Ghana's stubborn defence, a challenge Arsenal faced repeatedly last season.
Arsenal came up against numerous defensive-minded teams during their title-winning run, resulting in seven draws. The likes of Nottingham Forest and Liverpool held them to 0-0 scorelines, with Sunderland and Wolves also managing to take points off them.
What comes next?
Mikel Arteta will be eager to bring in an attacking player capable of unlocking stubborn defences and converting these draws into victories as they attempt to retain their Premier League title. Rashford's £40m release clause arguably shouldn't present a problem for Arsenal.
Arsenal have just made Piero Hincapie's switch from Bayer Leverkusen permanent for £34.5m after triggering the clause they secured in the defender's loan arrangement. This signing demonstrates the funds the Gunners are willing to spend.
Rashford is set on a switch to Barcelona this summer after a fruitful loan spell, but Anthony Gordon's £80million transfer to the Nou Camp appears to have derailed those ambitions. Tottenham are also showing interest in the 28-year-old.
The rivalry may pose an obstacle, but Manchester United have ruled out selling to only two clubs: Liverpool and Manchester City. This means any other English side could make a bid for Rashford.
It remains unclear whether Rashford fancies a switch to north London, but he would be an outstanding addition to Arsenal's attacking options for next season's title defence. Rashford's ability to make an impact from the substitutes' bench could be valuable for Arsenal.
Arsenal's title-winning run was marked by struggles against defensive-minded teams. The Gunners will look to strengthen their attack to convert draws into victories. Rashford's impact for England could be a solution to this problem.
The transfer window is open, and Arsenal are looking to make moves to strengthen their squad. Rashford's future is uncertain, but his ability to make an impact could make him a valuable addition to the Gunners' attack.