Declan Rice’s heroics for Arsenal helped drag the gunners over the line during an arduous season.
He then went straight into Englands World Cup squad where it was noticeable that his performances were affected by tiredness, injury concerns and extreme heat.
On a number of occasions he looked spent with his contributions falling beneath those he expects from himself and given the circumstances it’s hardly a surprise.
With the campaign over Arsenal now have to seriously look at his well-being and perhaps enforce a rest and recuperation period, but his absence from the start of the season may hinder the gunners attempts to retain the premier league trophy.
This has already added to Arsenal’s transfer plan woes with William Saliba unlikely to feature for up to five months.
That particular positional conundrum may be easier to manage and resolve than replacing Declan Rice and it’s clear that unless Norgaard stays at the Emirates we may have to dip into the transfer market.
The ideal solution would be to buy Manu Kone who looks ready made for that type of defensive cover role.
The only problem with that is he has suitor’s queuing around the block including a number of English clubs.
The other factor to consider is that Martin Zubimendi faded at the tail end of the season and although the first half of the campaign saw him performing at the highest level, the same can’t be said for the run in.
We could jiggle the players with either Mosquera of even possibly Hincapie but neither would be an adequate replacement offensively.
Ben White who was thought to have a leg through the exit door may be considered as a replacement for centre back and that may also be true of both Mosquera and Hincapie.
Not ideal but sometimes needs must.
That may put us at a disadvantage over a long season and injuries over four competitions are to be expected.
If Rice looks to be below his best then he must not start.
The midfielder would be better placed entering the fray when fully recovered for the battles ahead.
Other players that could cover the role are already at the club but that may create issues elsewhere.
Riccardo Calafiori is the type of player who could be combative and progressive in that role.
Jurriën Timber wouldn’t be out of place either but that leaves a massive hole at right back with Timber being universally hailed as the best right back in the Premier League last season, so rule that out.
This is just speculation obviously but it’s worth considering because after a long season Rice should be allowed longer to recover after completing 5,394 minutes for club and Country.