Rice hopeful of imminent new Arsenal contract agreement, defends teammate White

The 27-year-old has become an integral part of both club and country's starting line-ups following his excellent displays since joining the Gunners from West Ham United in 2023.

According to BBC Sport, the midfielder is expected to sign a new long-term contract at the Emirates Stadium with his current deal set to expire in the summer of 2028.

"A new contract is hopefully on the horizon soon," said Rice ahead of Sunday's Nations League showdown with Spain in Madrid on Sunday.

"And I'm extremely lucky to be at a club like Arsenal where the manager shows me so much trust and team-mates who put so much energy into me."

"I've been extremely lucky I've managed to play at such a consistent level throughout my career. I always set myself targets, pushing for more. I'm extremely Iucky not to have to worry about that stuff as it makes playing football far more easier."

The Englishman was also critical of the England supporters booing teammate Ben White upon his second half introduction in the 2-1 win over Croatia on Thursday.

White was making his third appearance for the Three Lions under Thomas Tuchel following a self-imposed hiatus during the tenure of former national team head coach Gareth Southgate in 2022.

"The incident with Ben was over five years ago, I don't know why it is still a conversation to be honest," added Rice to BBC Radio 5 Live.

"Knowing Ben, knowing the character he is, he has totally moved on from all of that. He always wears the shirt with pride and every time he puts on the shirt, he gives 100 percent.

"It shows his character. It is not easy being booed coming on at Wembley, but to show his mental strength to play the game and to play well, like he did in the previous months, is a real testament to him."

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