Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta remains hopeful about Declan Rice's availability for the Gunners' weekend clash with Aston Villa, despite the England star being forced off during Wednesday's triumph over Brentford. But Cristhian Mosquera faces a "more complicated" problem.
"Well, let's see," Arteta informed journalists on Friday when asked about Rice. "I think with all the questions I'm going to get, the answer, unfortunately, is going to be the same. We have another training session in the afternoon. Every hour is going to be very important to see the availability of the players. After that, we'll decide who travels."
When quizzed about Mosquera, who was withdrawn in the opening period on Wednesday, Arteta admitted concerns. "That's the one that is more complicated. But again, we have another test today to see where we are with them," the Spanish tactician revealed.
Rice had previously downplayed concerns over his fitness setback, with his preliminary evaluation providing encouragement for the North London outfit. Nevertheless, Arsenal may need to rely heavily on their defensive depth given Mosquera's setback.
The victory over Brentford ensures Arsenal head into their Saturday lunchtime encounter holding a commanding five-point advantage at the Premier League summit. Manchester City had momentarily narrowed the deficit on Tuesday evening, surviving a dramatic late fightback to secure a thrilling 5-4 victory at Fulham.
With Pep Guardiola's side not in action until 3pm on Saturday, the Gunners have a chance to increase the gap to eight before City host Sunderland. It won't be straightforward, though, with Villa currently third in the table after their 4-3 victory at Brighton.
"Every time you win a game obviously you are a little bit closer to your objective and it is the only thing we can do," Arteta said. "We have to focus on performing, preparing really well for tomorrow so we know the kind of game we are going to play and be ready to fulfill our potential."
Arsenal were without several other stars for their midweek triumph. Gabriel and William Saliba weren't available at centre-back, whilst Leandro Trossard and Kai Havertz remain absent from the attacking line-up.
"It is a matter of days with those two," Arteta said when addressing Saliba and Trossard. Nevertheless, he has previously suggested Gabriel and Havertz will need to wait slightly longer before returning to first-team duties.