ARSENAL supporters are already in love with Declan Rice after spotting his pre-match antics ahead of his Premier League debut for the club.

The Gunners are taking on Nottingham Forest at home in their opening match of the season.


And their new British record £105m midfielder was lining-up in the top-flight for Mikel Arteta’s side following his summer move from West Ham.

Despite the clash being delayed 30 minutes due to ticketing issues on the turnstile, Arsenal made a blistering start and took a 2-0 lead thanks to Eddie Nketiah and Bukayo Saka in the first half.

However, it was footage of England international Rice, 24, singing along to Arsenal’s pre-match anthem that got fans talking.

TNT Sports were broadcasting the game and they shared a clip of him enjoying Louis Dunford's “The Angel” ahead of kick-off.

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Dunford's song contains the lyrics “North London Forever” and has been adopted by the Gunners.

It was introduced during the 2021.22 campaign in a bid to boost the atmosphere at the Emirates.

It seems to be doing the trick – and it is certainly rousing Rice after he was spotted mouthing the lyrics during a team huddle.

Supporters were quick to react to the footage and posted their delight on Twitter.

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One wrote: “Declan Rice already singing along to North London Forever.

“They must be fuming in the east.”

Another commented: “Declan Rice singing along to North London Forever under his breath in the team huddle.

“HE GETS IT ALREADY, THE ARSENAL.”

Meanwhile, another added: “Rice's PR team is absolutely elite.

“Mouthing along to North London Forever on the first day, give them all a raise. Lovely stuff.”

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