Arsenal handed Declan Rice injury scare during Brentford win | OneFootball

Midfielder was unable to continue to prompt fitness concerns

Scare: Declan Rice

Rice, who has started 13 of Arsenal’s 14 league games, was replaced by Viktor Gyokeres in the 83rd minute after he required treatment on his calf.

The England international has been an ever-present for league leaders Arsenal, and his withdrawal comes as Mikel Arteta contends with a growing injury list.

The Gunners, who took an early lead against Brentford through Mikel Merino before Bukayo Saka sealed the three points in second-half injury time, had already seen centre-back Cristhian Mosquera taken off after he landed awkwardly after contesting for a header with Kevin Schade.

Arteta, who is also without first-choice centre-backs William Saliba and Gabriel, had rung the changes against Brentford.

However, with Mosquera and Rice having to leave the pitch, the Arsenal boss’ injury problems continue to mount.

Arsenal travel to Villa Park on Saturday to take on Aston Villa, looking to extend their lead at the top of the Premier League table.