Declan Rice was the standout performer for Arsenal as they beat Liverpool 1-0, with the England midfielder earning man-of-the-match honors and praising his team-mates after the victory

Declan Rice revealed his true character with a message to his Arsenal colleagues just moments after their slender triumph over Liverpool.

Kai Havertz's early close-range finish ensured all three points for the Gunners, who recorded their first victory at Anfield since 2012 and established a two-point advantage over Manchester City at the Premier League summit.

Rice was the standout performer on the pitch, with the England international at the centre of everything positive for Arsenal throughout the contest.

He provided the assist for Havertz's goal, which arrived after Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker relinquished possession in a precarious area. Rice was recognised for his commanding performance with the man-of-the-match accolade, but was swift to emphasise that he wasn't the sole outstanding performer for Arsenal.

Speaking on Sky Sports, he said: "This can go to anyone today. That defensive line we have, that togetherness we have, it's nothing like I have seen before.

"The manager had a really honest conversation with me, he still thinks I can do more for this club and this badge. This season so far I've been feeling really good. We spoke about overlaps before the game.

"I spoke to this guy [Havertz] about attacking the box with real aggression. He was there, and he nearly could have had another one with the same action, so I'm so happy for him because he deserved that goal today. It's always tiring and tough coming here. It's my first win here as a player, so it's demanding.

Jamie Carragher heaped praise upon Rice following the final whistle, maintaining that he ranks amongst the finest midfielders Arsenal have possessed..

"He's the best midfield player in the Premier League by a long way, it's not even a debate," stated the former Liverpool defender.. "Last season there was a debate with [Moises] Caicedo, but it's not even a debate. Declan Rice is the best midfield player in this country.

"I'm not an Arsenal fan, but sometimes I hear people speak about him and I'm sort of flabbergasted that they don't understand football and they're not watching the same game as me. ". "He's a world-class midfield player. There's absolutely no doubt about it.

"One of the best midfield players Arsenal have ever had. They've had some obviously great ones and he's right up there with the best of them."