Declan Rice was ‘absolutely outstanding’ against Bayer Leverkusen, says Paul Merson (Picture: Getty)Paul Merson singled out Declan Rice for special praise in Arsenal’s 2-0 victory over Bayer Leverkusen, applauding the midfielder’s ‘absolutely outstanding’ performance to help his side progress to the Champions League quarter-finals. They are just rolling,’ ex-Arsenal and England midfielder Merson said on Sky Sports after his former club’s 3-1 win on aggregate. Arsenal midfielder Rice was named the Playstation Player of the Match (Picture: Getty)‘They were under pressure, Leverkusen. Arsenal are the only undefeated team in this year’s competition (Picture: Getty)‘They’re a really good tactical team but in the end we deserved the win tonight. Arrow MORE: Danny Murphy names Champions League ‘favourites’ after Arsenal beat Bayer LeverkusenArrow MORE: Second Chelsea star ‘confused and frustrated’ as Liam Rosenior responds to Enzo Fernandez bombshellArrow MORE: Thierry Henry backs £27million Arsenal star to win player of the season

Source: Metro March 18, 2026 09:34 UTC