Arsenal manager, Mikel Arteta, has confirmed a significant injury setback following the goalless Premier League draw against Everton at the Emirates Stadium. This comes as another blow to Arsenal who have been grappling with multiple injury concerns this campaign.
In their second consecutive league game without a win, Arsenal dominated possession but failed to break through Everton's strong defensive resolve. The Toffees' performance ensured they secured a draw at the Emirates Stadium.
Surprise substitutions and injury concerns
Arteta made some unexpected changes after the hour mark during the match. Both Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard were substituted; however, Rice’s removal was not due to tactical reasons.
Speaking after the goalless stalemate, Arteta revealed that England international Rice had been carrying an injury for over a week which necessitated his substitution.
Mikel Arteta, Arsenal manager, said:
“Well, with Declan, I had to take him out because he was feeling something. He has been with a little niggle for the last week or so. He has to be subbed in that moment. We have to do it.”
This season has seen Arsenal hampered by numerous injuries. They missed Odegaard earlier in this campaign which resulted in several dropped points.
The club has also faced absences from Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Magalhaes at different stages of this season due to injuries. Ben White is currently sidelined for an extended period following surgery while Riccardo Calafiori is nursing a groin issue. Rice himself was unable to participate in several games earlier this term due to a broken toe and it appears he is now dealing with another muscular injury issue. Given these circumstances, Arteta seems determined not to take any risks with 25-year-old midfielder's health.
Upcoming matches amidst injury woes
Arsenal are set to host Crystal Palace in the Carabao Cup quarter-final on Wednesday. Given Rice's current condition, it is highly likely that he will be rested for this match. However, there is a possibility of Rice facing Palace in the league on the road next weekend.
Arteta has been known to rotate his starting line-up for the Carabao Cup, but given the opportunity to make it into the last four of the competition, we might see a much stronger line-up this time around. Despite their injury woes, Arsenal will be looking to leverage their strengths and secure a win in their upcoming matches.
