Arsenal star Declan Rice is doing everything possible to drive the club towards their first Premier League title in 22 years.
The Gunners battled their way to a tense 1-0 victory over West Ham United on Sunday in another massive step in the title race.
Leandro Trossard finally broke the deadlock in the 83rd minute before a hugely controversial VAR decision dramatically went Arsenal’s way deep into stoppage time.
Rice once again delivered an influential display against his former club, although he was later spotted clutching his lower back after the final whistle.
According to journalist Ryan Taylor, Rice has been managing discomfort and small niggles in recent weeks.
The sight of Rice in visible discomfort would undoubtedly have sent anxiety through the Arsenal fanbase but he has still been able to train frequently.
The 27-year-old may have lost possession 21 times, but he still produced an immense all-round display with seven defensive contributions, five clearances and a big chance created.
He started in his favoured midfield role but operated as a right-back after an injury to Ben White.
Rice is enjoying arguably the finest season of his career and could soon cap it off by lifting both the Premier League and the UEFA Champions League trophies.
His fitness may ultimately prove decisive in determining whether Mikel Arteta and the Arsenal hierarchy finally complete the long journey towards winning the league title that they started years ago.
The Gunners will host Burnley at the Emirates Stadium next Monday, but their attention will also be firmly fixed on Manchester City’s result later this week.
Stats from Sofascore.com