Evolution of a player: Mikel Arteta heaps praise on Arsenal star

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has heaped praise on midfielder Declan Rice following the club's 2-0 Premier League win over Burnley on the road.

The Gunners extended their advantage at the top of the table after a commanding display at Turf Moor. Declan Rice was awarded the man of the match for a superb all-round showing.

The England international scored the second goal from a tremendous counter-attack. Leandro Trossard delivered a fabulous cross for Rice to head beyond the grasp of goalkeeper Martin Dubravka.

Aside from his goal, the former West Ham United star also made 21 defensive contributions. It was the most during the game. Gabriel was the second-best with only 11 defensive involvements.

Speaking after the game, Arteta lauded his performance saying: "He stepped up. He won I don't know how many balls and tackles. It's the evolution of a player."

Arsenal have now won nine games on the bounce while keeping a clean sheet in each of their last seven matches.

They will be aiming to continue the streak against Sparta Prague in the Champions League on Tuesday evening.