According to BBC Sport, Declan Rice missed yesterday’s 2-2 draw at Liverpool due to a hamstring strain.
It was only the second time this season that the England international was absent from the matchday squad – the first came when he was suspended for September’s north London derby – and he had been on a run of 16 consecutive league starts. In total, Rice has played 50 games for the Gunners this season.
It remains to be seen whether the midfielder recovers in time for Sunday’s clash with Newcastle at the Emirates, although reporter Sami Mokbel reports the medical team won’t take any unnecessary risks. He also says there is hope it’s not a serious injury.
With Mikel Merino suspended for the clash with his former club after walking at Anfield for two bookable offences and Leandro Trossard limping off with a muscular problem, Mikel Arteta won’t have many options at his disposal.
If Rice is unavailable, Jorginho could be asked to partner Thomas Partey in midfield, while Ethan Nwaneri and Raheem Sterling will be vying for Trossard’s place in attack.
Arsenal need to avoid defeat at the weekend to stay in second place heading into the final game of the season at Southampton. A point would effectively guarantee Champions League football.