Medical tests have revealed that Declan Rice did not sustain a significant back injury during Sunday’s 2-2 draw with Tottenham Hotspur, giving Arsenal a much-needed injury boost, according to reports in BBC.
After joining the Gunners for a club-record fee in the summer transfer window, Rice has been exceptional. He has started every game this season, also scoring a crucial goal against Manchester United.
The England international was forced to leave the pitch during the north London Derby due to a back injury at half-time. His replacement, Jorginho, made the error that led to Son Heung-min’s equalizer in the second half.
In response to concerns that the midfielder could spend considerable time on the sidelines, Mikel Arteta said the Englishman felt discomfort in his back and will be examined in the following days.
As per reports in the BBC, the medical tests have revealed that the former West Ham man did not suffer a serious injury and is set to return to action quickly.
However, Rice will not be included in Arsenal’s Carabao Cup game against Brentford on Wednesday. He is expected to be back for the visit to Bournemouth in the Premier League on Saturday.
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Injuries have plagued the squad in recent weeks. Jurrien Timber is set to be sidelined for a major chunk of this season due to an ACL injury while Gabriel Martinelli, Leandro Trossard, and Thomas Partey also missed the Tottenham game due to injuries.
Rice’s injury update would come as a huge relief to Arteta. He has been excellentso far this campaign, proving to be a key player. He will now have the opportunity to build on his impressive start to the season since arriving from West Ham.
Important first-team players are likely to be rested for the Carabao Cup third-round tie against Brentford. Sunday’s draw against Tottenham means Arsenal now sit fifth in the Premier League table, four points behind the leaders Manchester City. Rice will play a pivotal role in the Gunners’ pursuit to reduce that gap in the coming weeks.
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