Jamie Carragher has declared Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhaes the most influential player in the Premier League following his return from injury. The Brazilian scored the opening goal in Arsenal's 4-1 victory over Aston Villa on Tuesday night, having missed six league games with a hamstring problem.
Speaking on Sky Sports, the former Liverpool star said: 'It felt like more than three points, psychologically. The feeling around the training ground tomorrow will be completely different. Gabriel being back is huge. Before I've said that he's the most influential player in the Premier League, and we've seen it again tonight.'
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta also praised his centre-back, noting the difficulty of returning after six weeks out against a dangerous Villa attack. 'He impacted the game in an incredible way, both defending and in the opposition box,' Arteta said.
Arteta also provided an update on Declan Rice, who missed the Villa match with a knee injury. The midfielder is a doubt for Saturday's trip to Bournemouth, with Arteta saying his availability depends on swelling subsiding.
