Arsenal are optimistic Declan Rice will not miss a long-term injury, despite the key midfielder reporting major pain in his back in the hours after Sunday’s 2-2 draw against Tottenham.
Rice, who was substituted at half-time of the north London derby with what Mikel Arteta described as back problems, is undergoing tests to determine the extent of the injury.
It is understood the England international’s back pain has become so bad overnight that it is restricting his movement, amid concerns the Gunners could be without Rice for a while.
However, it is understood that such discomfort may be common with such injuries, with medics hoping Rice will not be missing for a long period.
The Gunners are yet to figure out the next steps to get Rice back to full fitness, but concerns are subsiding that it is not a serious injury.
Arsenal are optimistic Declan Rice will not suffer a long-term injury after complaining of back pain
The midfielder was substituted at half-time against Tottenham on Sunday afternoon
Arsenal take on Brentford in the Carabao Cup this weekend and Rice will almost certainly miss the tie.
It remains to be seen whether Rice will be available for Saturday’s visit to Bournemouth and then next week’s Champions League match at Lens.
However, there is hope that the 24-year-old can play a week against champions Manchester City on Sunday.
Elsewhere, Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli are also expected to return from respective hamstring injuries in time to face Pep Guardiola’s side.
Thomas Partey is making good progress after a groin injury and hopes he can make a return sooner than expected. He was due to return after the October international break.
