Paul Scholes has questioned whether Declan Rice has been Arsenal’s best player this season and believes Jurrien Timber has been more influential for the Premier League leaders.

Rice has been one of many standout performers in Mikel Arteta’s side this term as the Gunners currently sit four points ahead of Manchester City, although their lead will be back to seven points with a win against Manchester United on Sunday.

But Scholes, who won 11 Premier League titles with Manchester United, feels Martin Zubimendi has been as equally key in Arsenal’s midfield and claims Arteta’s defensive players have had more influence on their season so far.

‘Has Declan Rice been that special this year?’ Scholes said on The Overlap’s latest fan debate.

‘I really like him, but I’m struggling to see that he is the best player in the league at this point.

‘I think your defenders have probably had a bigger influence than Declan Rice.

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