Rice has enjoyed an excellent run of form in recent weeks but Silva believes he still needs a teammate to “complement” him.
Arsenal “invincible” Gilberto Silva has discussed the Gunners’ form ahead of their Champions League round of 16 encounter against Porto.
Rice, who has been pivotal for Arsenal since his record-breaking transfer last summer, has earned praise for his stellar performances, especially during the Gunners’ recent five-game winning streak.
“I’d highlight Rice as the key man, he’s adapted very well,” Silva said (via Metro). “He’s a great leader and I’m looking forward to seeing him play with Partey.
“I think they could complement each other, like me and [Patrick] Vieira.”
Partey came close to making his return from injury against Liverpool earlier this month. But a new setback has delayed his comeback for a few more weeks. Sources close to Arsenal have claimed the Ghana international could return to action against Newcastle this weekend.
Fabio Vieira is another Arsenal midfielder who’s on the verge of completing his rehab from a groin injury. Speaking on the Portuguese star, Silva added: “In terms of his style and the coach’s vision, he’s very close to [Martin] Odegaard.
“You have good ideas and dynamics, but he has to recognise that and the quality he has.
“I think he’ll be utilised more, he’s got enormous ability, he just needs to get loose.”
Prior to facing Porto in the second leg, Arsenal will meet Newcastle, Sheffield United, and Brentford in their next Premier League matches.
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