Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has been handed a significant and timely boost with the news that midfielder Declan Rice could be in contention for this evening's Premier League trip to Bournemouth.
Rice's Swift Recovery From Knee Problem
The England international, who missed the Gunners' emphatic 4-1 victory over Aston Villa earlier this week, has travelled with the squad to the south coast. Rice was sidelined for that match due to a knee issue sustained the previous weekend, which caused noticeable swelling.
Arteta's initial updates had been cautious, suggesting the 26-year-old was likely to miss the fixture at the Vitality Stadium. As recently as 36 hours before kick-off, the Spanish coach indicated the swelling had not fully subsided, stating it was "too early" for Rice to feature against Villa.
However, in a positive development, Rice was reportedly part of the travelling party and was spotted during the team's pre-match walk on Saturday morning. His presence suggests his condition has improved markedly, offering Arteta a welcome selection dilemma.
Arteta's Selection Dilemma and Squad Updates
While Rice's potential involvement is a major lift, Arteta faces a congested fixture list. With crucial matches against Liverpool and Chelsea on the horizon, alongside FA Cup and Champions League commitments this month, the manager must manage his squad carefully.
This could mean Rice is named among the substitutes or, if he starts, is withdrawn early to preserve his fitness. Arteta has confirmed that defenders Riccardo Calafiori and Cristhian Mosquera remain unavailable through injury.
Arsenal's injury situation is clearing up rapidly. Gabriel Magalhaes, Ben White, and Kai Havertz have all returned to action in the past week. Furthermore, striker Gabriel Jesus is back after an 11-month absence due to a serious knee injury, scoring in his first start last month.
Attack Refresh for Packed Schedule
Arteta hinted at rotations in his attacking line-up, given the demanding schedule of nine matches in January. When asked about how returning players could help striker Viktor Gyokeres, who hasn't scored from open play since October, Arteta emphasised squad depth.
"It helps the team, it helps every individual," Arteta said. "I think that's what we want, to have the option with the amount of games that we have on the schedule. So far we haven't had that option, so looking forward to have everybody on it."
Arsenal's January schedule is relentless, featuring league games against Nottingham Forest, Liverpool, Manchester United, and Leeds, a Carabao Cup semi-final first leg at Chelsea, and Champions League encounters with Kairat and Inter Milan.
The possible return of Declan Rice, a cornerstone of Arteta's midfield, provides vital experience and stability as Arsenal navigate this critical period in their season.
