Mikel Arteta has insisted that the heated exchange between Declan Rice and assistant manager Albert Stuivenberg during Arsenal's Carabao Cup semi-final win over Chelsea is now resolved. The pair were seen arguing in the tunnel at half-time of Wednesday's 3-2 victory at Stamford Bridge, with Rice throwing his arms in the air in frustration before being separated by defender Gabriel.
Speaking ahead of Saturday's Premier League trip to Nottingham Forest, Arteta said: 'It is all sorted. All good.' When asked if the incident reflected the desire to win within the squad, he added: 'Yes. And the good thing is that by the time I found out, the problem was resolved. So that is very good.'
Arsenal's victory, secured by goals from Ben White, Viktor Gyokeres and Martin Zubimendi, gives them a strong advantage ahead of the second leg on February 3. The Gunners currently lead the Premier League by six points and face a Forest side struggling near the bottom of the table.
Second-placed Manchester City play earlier on Saturday in the Manchester derby against United, while third-placed Aston Villa host Everton on Sunday.
