Mikel Arteta gives surprise answer to Declan Rice question after loud boos from West Ham fans
Mikel Arteta has praised West Ham's fans for the reception they gave Declan Rice, despite large sections behind heard booing him.
The midfielder was arguably Arsenal's most impressive performer in an emphatic 6-0 win over the Hammers at the London Stadium.
As well as recording two assists for the first time in the Premier League, Rice scored the Gunners' sixth goal of the afternoon with a stunning curled effort into the top corner of the net.
That was followed by a mix of boos and cheers when Rice was substituted moments later.
Arsenal's £105million signing felt the wrath of large sections from the very start with West Ham fans booing his every touch during the first half of the game.
While some cheers could be heard for the former West Ham captain, the reception for Rice was mixed at best, even if Arteta was keen to pay tribute to their warm welcome.
«It's always difficult to come back to your old club,» Arteta said. «The fans were really good to him [Rice].
»When he went to take the corner they clapped him so it's great to see that kind of reception.
«He loves this club so much and I know what it meant to him to play today.
“We have to share the goals. That desire and that commitment to get into the box to make things happen, it was excellent.”
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