Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has revealed he does not yet know if key midfielder Declan Rice will be fit for this weekend's Premier League trip to Bournemouth.
Rice Race Against Time
The England international missed Tuesday night's emphatic 4-1 victory over Aston Villa at the Emirates Stadium due to a knee injury sustained in last Saturday's win over Brighton. Rice played on through the issue at the weekend but swelling ruled him out against Villa.
When asked if Rice could feature at the Vitality Stadium, Arteta gave a cautious update. 'It depends, that swelling has to come right down for him to have the chance to function,' the Gunners' boss said. 'He wasn't able to do that today, he's improving. But let's see what happens in the next couple of days.'
Gunners Click Into Gear
In Rice's absence, Arsenal produced a stunning second-half display to dismantle Unai Emery's Villa and extend their lead at the summit. After an even first period, the league leaders scored twice in four minutes after the break to take control.
Gabriel Magalhães, making his first start since a hamstring injury in November, bundled home the opener from a Bukayo Saka corner after Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez fumbled. Martin Ødegaard swiftly added a second with a precise finish.
Further goals from Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Jesus sealed a vital win that ended Villa's impressive 11-game winning run in the league and moved Arsenal six points ahead of the Midlands club, who sit third.
Arteta's Delight and Gabriel's Impact
Arteta was full of praise for his team's performance, particularly their efficiency in front of goal. 'I'm so happy... The goal was fulfilled in an extraordinary way, so efficient in everything that we did,' he said. 'Unlike the last few games where we had so many big situations, today we were very prolific and accurate to make the difference.'
He reserved special acclaim for defender Gabriel, who returned ahead of schedule. 'Big Gabi, he comes from an injury of six weeks, that probably should have been a bit longer,' Arteta noted. 'He plays against probably the team that is the hardest to control... He impacts the game in an incredible way, both defending and the opposition box.'
The result sent Arsenal five points clear of second-placed Manchester City, who have a game in hand. The only post-match note of contention was the absence of a handshake between the two managers, with Emery stating he did not wait for Arteta as it was cold, but insisted there was no issue.
