Thierry Henry has praised Declan Rice for delivering a clever performance despite Arsenal’s defeat at Porto last night. 

The Gunners suffered a 1-0 at the Estadio do Dragao thanks to a late stunner from Galeno.

Arsenal dominated the ball throughout the game but struggled to break down a well-drilled Porto side. Indeed, Mikel Arteta’s men failed to produce a single shot on target and in truth, Porto created the better opportunities on the night.

The Portuguese giants looked dangerous in transition and Declan Rice picked up a yellow card early in the game.

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But the Englishman put in a disciplined performance thereafter and never looked in danger of picking up a second booking.

The 25-year-old also made a crucial block just after the hour mark to deny Porto a clear goalscoring opportunity after Pepe had beaten Kai Havertz down the right-hand side.

And Rice’s display in the Champions League has led to praise from Arsenal legend Thierry Henry.

Henry impressed with Rice despite Porto defeat

Speaking on CBS Sports, Henry highlighted Rice’s performance after a disappointing evening for Arsenal.

“Him stopping what people don’t notice at times,” Henry said. “What I like is he took a yellow after two minutes and he stayed in the game.

“You will see, you can see him here. He blocks the shot. But at the beginning he is looking at what is happening here [on the edge of the box].

“He did it so many times in the game. With a yellow. That’s not an easy one, this is why he’s so important for the team.”

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It’s no coincidence that Arsenal have improved defensively since Rice’s arrival over the summer.

Arteta’s side boasts the best defensive record in the Premier League and Rice does a lot of work in front of the back four which can go unnoticed.

While last night’s result was disappointing for Arsenal, they will surely fancy their chances of turning the tie around at the Emirates Stadium.