Arsenal have received a timely fitness update ahead of their biggest game of the season. The clash against Manchester City could define the title race.
However, there had been concerns in the build-up. Declan Rice was considered a doubt after struggling with illness earlier in the week.
The midfielder had been unwell ahead of the Champions League tie against Sporting. Meanwhile, he still featured in that match.
Rice played the full 90 minutes despite not being at his best physically. At the same time, questions remained over his availability for the trip to the Etihad.
Now, Rice has put those concerns to rest. Speaking to Sky Sports, he confirmed:
“I’m fully fit. Yes, I’ve been ill. I’ve been in bed, not well. To get out against Sporting, obviously, I perked up in the morning enough to be able to play.
“I wasn’t at 100 per cent, but to help this team out, no way I was missing a quarter-final to try and get to a semi-final. I was well enough to be able to go out there and play.
“But, yes, it’s just a little illness and I’m over it now and on to Sunday.”
He also revealed the extent of his determination. He admitted he was not at 100 per cent against Sporting but refused to miss such a crucial game.
Meanwhile, his importance to the team has grown even further. Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka are both sidelined with injuries.
That has left Rice as one of the key leaders in the squad. At the same time, he has called for a strong response. He urged Arsenal to make a ‘statement’ against City after recent setbacks.
Those setbacks include the Carabao Cup final defeat to the same opponent. Meanwhile, Manchester City also face issues of their own.
Transfer News Live revealed earlier that Ruben Dias is set to miss the game again due to an ankle injury. Also, John Stones and Josko Gvardiol are dealing with fitness problems, leaving City short at the back
However, Arsenal need to be at their best to exploit City’s weakness. And with Declan Rice now fully fit, the Gunners head into the clash with renewed confidence.
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