Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta revealed Declan Rice is “fine” but did not commit to the midfielder's inclusion in Wednesday's Carabao Cup quarter-final against Crystal Palace.
The rice was removed an hour into Arsenal's goalless draw with Everton on Saturday alongside club captain Martin Odegaard. While the captain's departure was a surprising tactical decision – which failed to pay off – Arteta revealed that Rice was “feeling something”.
When asked about the England international's availability up front visit from the PalaceArteta dismissed any concerns. However, the Arsenal boss admitted he would only be able to make a final decision after assessing his midfielder in training.
For most of his career, Rice has boasted a near-unblemished injury record. A broken finger sidelined the 25-year-old for two weeks in mid-November – forcing him to sit out the last two. England games of the year – and there have been various hiccups that have prevented his inclusion.
Rice is not the only one fitness concern for Arteta to sail ahead of the all-important cup tie. As the Spanish coach revealed: “Alex (Zinchenko) and Riccardo (Calafiori) will still be out of the team.”
Arteta is expected to play one strong formation for what is arguably Arsenal's biggest game of the season so far. While the former captain of the club it has been prickly on the subject of his personal trophy count, he has admitted that this current crop of players would benefit from a piece of silverware after finishing as Premier League runners-up twice.
“I think it's really helpful,” Arts pointed out. “It brings confidence, trust and positive energy. Touching a cup generates that energy and I think it creates the right path.”