Declan Rice has hinted that he may have avoided a serious injury after being substituted during Arsenal's 2-1 victory over Chelsea on Sunday. The midfielder posted an optimistic social media message following the match, writing 'keep pushing' alongside a photo of himself celebrating, with no mention of any injury.
Rice appeared to pull up after sprinting back to defend a Chelsea counter-attack in the second half. He was seen wincing and attempting to stretch before being replaced by Christian Norgaard in the 76th minute. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta confirmed after the match that Rice would need to be assessed ahead of Wednesday's Premier League clash with Brighton.
Goals from William Saliba and Jurrien Timber from corners secured the win for Arsenal, restoring their five-point lead at the top of the table. Chelsea scored through Piero Hincapie from a set piece, but played the final 20 minutes with 10 men after Pedro Neto was sent off.
Arteta acknowledged the demanding schedule ahead, with Arsenal still competing in four competitions. 'We're going to have to make changes and give opportunities to everybody to be fresh,' he said, referring to the quick turnaround before the Brighton match.
Goalkeeper David Raya also appeared to pick up a knock late in the game, but Arteta praised his performance, highlighting a crucial save in the closing stages. 'David is one of our leaders without a doubt,' Arteta said. 'He knows how to maintain his focus and decide a football match when you need him.'
