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Arsenal great Ray Parlour has expressed his admiration for one of the club’s standout stars currently representing England at the 2026 World Cup.

England’s chances of success this summer will largely rely on the performances of their midfield leader, Declan Rice.

Rice has steadily evolved into a vital player for the Three Lions across recent tournaments and made a strong start in England’s opening victory over Croatia on Wednesday.

According to Parlour, Rice’s rise to becoming one of Europe’s top midfielders was something he anticipated the moment Arsenal secured the former West Ham United captain in the summer of 2024.

“I remember when he was about to sign, I was at my local pub where Mark Noble also goes,” Parlour told FourFourTwo while promoting the Best Seat in the House campaign, which aims to support independent pub landlords. “I was chatting with Mark and asked, ‘What’s happening with Declan, is he going to sign?’ Since they were close friends at West Ham, Mark said he had heard Declan was joining. I was thrilled because I already knew what a fantastic player he was.”

Parlour added, “It’s not just about his performances on the pitch. Mark mentioned how professional he was at the training ground – always working hard, staying focused, and encouraging his team-mates. That’s crucial because that’s where you spend most of your time, building those relationships and setting an example. Many young players at the club look up to Declan.”

Parlour believes Rice’s influence off the field was a major factor in Arsenal’s Premier League title win last season.

“He’s been outstanding, truly. What makes him inspiring is that he never shies away from the tough work – the gritty, unpleasant side of the game – even though he’s incredibly talented. You can tell that he’s willing to dig deep, and that attitude rubs off on those around him. He’s been a real inspiration to everyone in the Arsenal squad.”

“He’s also a brilliant presence in the dressing room, which is just as vital. He’s still young, with many years ahead of him, and I believe he can achieve even more for both Arsenal and England. With players like him, success is within reach. He’s a top professional and an even better person, and that combination is priceless.”

Parlour is also leading an initiative to champion local pubs across the United Kingdom.

“It’s so important, especially for people who have just moved into a new area – your local pub is where you meet people,” he explained. “Pubs are especially special during major football tournaments.”

“There’s no better place to watch a match. Watching at home just isn’t the same – when a goal goes in, you miss that shared moment of joy and connection with others. If you can’t be at the stadium, the pub is the next best thing – surrounded by friends, feeling the highs and lows together. That’s what football is all about.”

“I love meeting new people, and pubs make that so easy. It’s essential we help local pubs survive, and that requires collective effort. That’s why I’m proud to support this campaign.”

Pub owners across the UK are expecting a quieter summer despite the busy football schedule. With rising operational costs affecting many of the nation’s cherished local establishments, the campaign invites people to nominate their favourite pub, with the winning venue receiving financial support from Simply Business, one of the UK’s leading business insurance providers.