Arsenal Press Conference: Steve Bould to Replace Pat Rice

Being in attendance at the Arsene Wenger press conference today, the mood was a positive one on topics surrounding the crunch tie with West Brom at the weekend.

But the topic that was brought up first was the departure of Pat Rice from the Arsenal coaching staff.

Wenger spoke on Rice's time at the club and how he felt about him losing his No. 2.

"It's difficult to measure his contribution, he has just been tremendous. It's sad because his life was linked with Arsenal, and Arsenal was privileged to have him as a player, as a captain and as a coach. Personally, of course, I am very grateful for his contribution to my period here. I would like him to forgive me for the bad moments I have given him as well."

He went on to commend Rice for his knowledge of the game in England.

"It's important when you come from abroad, to have an assistant who knows the culture of the club and the culture of the country. I always do that when I travel and I was privileged here because I was lucky. Pat knew Arsenal well and knew English football well. Nobody more than Pat Rice is a fighter, in every single game he is ready for a fight."

Wenger also touched on who would replace him, and confirmed that the appointment would be one within the club.

He confirmed that Steve Bould, head coach of the U-18 academy side would be stepping in to fill Pat Rice's shoes.

"His (Bould's) qualities are that he has experience at the top level of the game, he has managed here, he knows our football philosophy. So there'll be continuity. He's coached here at the club and we want to give an advantage to people at the club who know how we work and know how to coach.”

Arsenal will be hoping that Steve Bould's experience as an Arsenal centre-half will help patch up Arsenal's leaky defence, bringing more clean sheets next campaign.