Screen test for Rice would give Gunners best hope in Germany

DECLAN RICE has given Jorginho the nickname 'Tom Brady' because of his passing range, and in recent months the Italian has been Arsenal's quarterback.

- Simon Collings

The Italian has rolled back the years to shine at the base of midfield, with Rice pushed forward into a more advanced role.

But Mikel Arteta must surely be tempted to deploy Rice in his regular Noб position for tomorrow's Champions League decider against Bayern Munich in Germany.

The quarter-final is in the balance after a 2-2 draw at Emirates Stadium last week and Arsenal would benefit from having Rice in the heart of the battle for what feels like a season-defining game.

The Gunners need a reaction after their damaging 2-0 home league defeat to Aston Villa on Sunday.

The defensive solidity that has defined their season disappeared as they shipped four goals in two games against Bayern and Villa. Prior to that, they had conceded three times in 10 matches.

Fingers might be pointed at the defence, but the midfield is just as culpable. Arsenal lacked control in both games and they need to make sure they wrestle it back at the Allianz Arena.