Recognition from the best! Arsenal star Declan Rice reveals DMs from David Beckham & England legends after double free-kick heroics against Real Madrid

Speaking to TNT Sports, Rice has revealed that he received a DM from legendary dead-ball specialist David Beckham, among others, following his impressive exploits against Los Blancos back in April, when he found the net from range twice within 12 second-half minutes. The 26-year-old spoke about the unexpected attention on his set-piece abilities, and also discussed how the growing England contingent at Arsenal has helped new signings settle into the squad.

Rice has unexpectedly emerged as something of a set-piece specialist, having been elected to take both corners and free kicks for the north Londoners. His ability there has even drawn comparisons to Beckham, the former England and Manchester United star renowned for his adeptness from a dead ball. The presence of Rice, alongside other England internationals like Bukayo Saka, Myles Lewis-Skelly, Ben White, and new signings Eberechi Eze and Noni Madueke, strengthens the English core within the Arsenal squad, fostering a sense of camaraderie and aiding integration of the fresh faces.

Discussing the messages he received after the Real Madrid game, Rice said: "Who messaged me? I don't want to get this wrong. I think [David] Beckham messaged me. But I had that many messages that I should know that. But yeah, like old England legends, all of them, like Frank Lampard, [Steven] Gerrard, so many people."

When asked about being compared to Beckham, Rice responded: "Yeah, it's crazy because I I didn't come here to be a set-piece taker, but it was something the manager seen in me and the set-piece coach seen in me. I don't know, I felt like they had more belief in it, like more belief in me than I had in myself in taking them. And then the more I started to take them and like get more confident with it, I've realised that I could do what they want. And yeah, I've been really consistent with my deliveries."

On the England bond within the Arsenal squad, Rice added: "I think us four lining up together [for England] was it was incredible to be honest with you. I can't remember the last time probably four Arsenal players lined up in an England shirt together."

Rice will continue to be a pivotal figure for Arsenal as they aim to mount a serious title challenge this season and compete in the Champions League. His performances, leadership qualities, and growing influence within the group will be crucial to his side's success. The midfielder will also be hoping to maintain his place as a key member of the England squad as they prepare for the 2026 World Cup. With the Gunners back in Champions League action against Olympiacos on Wednesday, Rice will hope to demonstrate his ability from set-pieces once again.