Declan Rice reaction speaks volumes as Arsenal ace in injury scare ahead of England games

Arsenal's Declan Rice seemed to allay any serious fears with his reaction to his injury in the 2-0 win over West Ham. The midfielder played a starring role on Saturday after returning to the side, having been rested for the Champions League win over Olympiacos

With Arsenal expected to control the ball, Arteta chose to field captain Martin Odegaard and summer recruit Eberechi Eze in the two No. 8 positions with Rice anchoring the midfield. However, that tactical strategy had to be adjusted when Odegaard, who tried to continue after treatment, was compelled to leave the pitch in the 30th minute.

The Norwegian international had been substituted in the first half of Arsenal's last two league matches at the Emirates Stadium due to a shoulder injury, but this time it was a knee problem that led to him being replaced by Martin Zubimendi.

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His introduction pushed Rice further up the pitch, allowing him to be in the right spot at the right time to score the game's opening goal after Eze's shot was deflected into his path.

Bukayo Saka then doubled the home side's lead from the penalty spot following a foul on Jurrien Timber by El Hadji Malick Diouf.

Arsenal's star player raised concerns earlier in the match when he fell to the ground, clutching his ankle, but he persevered and celebrated his 200th Premier League appearance with a goal. However, Rice was forced to leave the pitch after a collision that required medical attention, and was replaced by Mikel Merino.

Losing Rice to injury would be a significant setback for Arteta, especially considering his impressive performance in this game and his stunning assist against Newcastle United last weekend.

One potential silver lining is that Rice appeared to be holding his back, suggesting that it's not a muscular issue and that he was only experiencing pain from the impact.

Mikel Arteta said afterwards about Rice's problem: "With Declan he was struggling with back pain and he asked me to come off. Let's see what the doctor says now and what is best for him."

However, if there is any damage, Arteta will be relieved that the October international break is just around the corner, meaning Arsenal's next match isn't for another fortnight.

Thomas Tuchel on the other hand, will likely be disappointed if he cannot partake in England duty for a friendly against Wales and then a World Cup qualifier against Latvia.

The Three Lions boss certainly has options, though, with Elliot Anderson starring in the last international break and Adam Wharton a more than capable midfielder to replace Rice in the squad if needed.

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