Arsenal are reportedly confident that Declan Rice has avoided a calf injury despite being forced off against Brentford.
With just seven minutes remaining in the game, the combative midfielder was substituted after running himself into the ground in the 2-0 triumph over the Bees.
Although Rice was seen pointing to the back of his calf while receiving treatment, there was internal assurance yesterday night that the 26-year-old was simply exhausted after another demanding, all-action performance in the middle of the park.
Following the match, the former captain of West Ham was able to stroll around the field with his teammates and cheer on the Arsenal fans as the Gunners regained their five-point lead at the top of the Premier League.
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Rice informed Sky Sports News that he was “fine” after leaving the Emirates Stadium. However, he will still be evaluated before Arsenal train on Friday in preparation for their midday trip to Aston Villa on Saturday.
Mosquera Doubtful For Aston Villa Clash
Before heading to the Midlands, Mikel Arteta’s top team will have one brief training session. They will now have to wait anxiously to find out if center-back Cristhian Mosquera will be out for some time.
After leaping to defend an aerial ball with Brentford forward Kevin Schade, the Spain U21 international defender seemed to jar his leg in the ground.
Although there was no physical contact with the Germany international, Mosquera initially appeared limping around the field due to ankle injury.
As Mosquera exited the field, William Saliba was seen shaking his head. Arsenal are hopeful the Frenchman will prove his fitness before this weekend’s trip to Villa.
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