Graeme Souness Critiques Declan Rice's Final Third Play: Potential For World-Class Status

Chloe Fitzgerald

4 min read

Post on May 03, 2025

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Souness's Critique: A Lack of End Product in the Final Third

Graeme Souness, a legendary figure in football management and analysis, recently questioned Declan Rice's effectiveness in the final third of the pitch. His critique wasn't a dismissal of Rice's talent, but rather a pointed observation about a specific area needing improvement. Souness highlighted a perceived deficiency in goals and assists, suggesting that while Rice excels at breaking up play and controlling the midfield, he needs to contribute more significantly in the attacking phase to be considered truly world-class.

• Key points of Souness's critique:
  • Insufficient goalscoring threat: Rice's goal tally remains relatively modest compared to other top midfielders.
  • Limited key passes and assists: While he controls the midfield, translating that control into creating clear-cut chances for teammates is an area for improvement.
  • Need for more decisive actions in attacking situations: Rice sometimes opts for the safe pass when a more ambitious, potentially goal-scoring play might be available.
  • Comparison to other top midfielders with better final third output: Players like Kevin De Bruyne and Bruno Fernandes serve as benchmarks, highlighting the disparity in attacking contributions.

Declan Rice's Strengths: Beyond the Final Third

Despite the criticism, Declan Rice’s value to any team is undeniable. His strengths extend far beyond simply scoring goals or providing assists. His contributions in other areas of the game are invaluable.

• Exceptional defensive capabilities:
  • Strong tackling ability: Rice consistently wins back possession through strong, well-timed tackles.
  • Excellent reading of the game: His anticipation and positioning are top-notch, allowing him to intercept passes and break up opposition attacks.
  • Impressive ball-winning skills: He excels at winning aerial duels and regaining possession in midfield battles.
  • Consistent interceptions and clearances: These defensive actions are crucial in maintaining stability and providing a solid foundation for his team.
• Leadership qualities:
  • Captaining both club and country: This speaks volumes about his influence and leadership capabilities.
  • Excellent on-field communication: He directs his teammates effectively, organizing the defense and dictating play.
  • Inspires teammates with his work rate: His tireless energy and commitment set a high standard for others to follow.
• Physical attributes:
  • Strength and power in midfield battles: He's able to hold his own against stronger opponents.
  • Excellent stamina and work rate: He consistently maintains a high level of performance throughout matches.

Rice's Passing Range and Distribution

While the lack of goals and assists is a valid concern, Rice's passing range and distribution are significant assets. He frequently dictates the tempo of play from deep, launching attacks with pinpoint passes. Improving his ability to deliver more incisive, creative passes into the attacking third would significantly enhance his overall impact.

Potential for Improvement and Reaching World-Class Status

Despite Souness's valid points, Declan Rice’s young age and prodigious talent suggest a bright future. With targeted training and tactical adjustments, he can undoubtedly refine his attacking skills.

• Areas for improvement:
  • Increased shooting practice and decision-making in the box: More confidence and composure in front of goal are needed.
  • Developing better awareness of teammate positioning for key passes: Improved vision and spatial awareness could lead to more assists.
  • Improving his ability to take players on one-on-one: Adding more dribbling and individual skill to his game would unlock more attacking options.
• Positive signs: Rice has shown glimpses of attacking brilliance, suggesting that the potential is there to be unlocked.

Comparing Declan Rice to Other Top Midfielders

Comparing Declan Rice to the world's elite midfielders highlights the areas where he needs to improve. While his defensive contributions are exceptional, the disparity in goals and assists compared to players like Kevin De Bruyne or Bruno Fernandes is clear. This isn't a criticism of Rice's overall abilities, but rather a demonstration of the standards required to be considered truly amongst the best.

Conclusion: The Future of Declan Rice

Graeme Souness’s critique of Declan Rice's final third play is a fair assessment, but it shouldn't overshadow his considerable strengths. Improving his attacking output is crucial for reaching the highest echelons of the game, but his defensive capabilities, leadership qualities, and overall influence are undeniable assets. With focused development and dedication, Declan Rice has the potential to significantly improve his attacking game and become one of the best midfielders in the world. The question isn't whether he can improve, but rather how quickly he can translate his potential into consistent, high-level attacking contributions. The journey of Declan Rice, and his quest to silence critics and solidify his status as a world-class midfielder, is far from over.