Slovenia and Atalanta great Josip Ilicic has revealed an appreciated gesture from Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice this week.
Rice sought out Ilicic before England's 0-0 draw with Euro 2024 opponents Slovenia.
Now with Maribor, Ilicic stood out of the game while with Atalanta due to depression.
The 36-year-old told Sky Italia: "My story is inspirational. I'm glad to hear that, honestly.
"Even today, entering the pitch there was an England player who complimented me.
"He told me he respects me a lot. It was nice to hear. My story is well-known around the world.
"The player who said that? He's a midfielder for Arsenal, I'm sure you know him, Declan Rice."
