Mikel Arteta has provided an update on his decision to substitute Declan Rice during Arsenal’s 2-0 win over Wolves.
The Gunners ensured that three points remained in North London on the opening day of the Premier League season as Wolves came to town.
Arteta’s side scored in the first and second half to secure the victory, with Bukayo Saka and Kai Havertz getting on the scoresheet.
It wasn’t all good news for Arsenal, however, as Declan Rice was forced to withdraw five minutes from time with what appeared to be an injury.
Declan Rice of Arsenal reacts with an injury as he is substituted off during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Wolverhampton Wanderer…
Why Declan Rice was substituted in Arsenal’s win over Wolves
Anxiety filled the Emirates as Rice hobbled off the pitch to be replaced by Gabriel Jesus with five minutes to go.
The last thing fans wanted to see was their prized midfielder sustain an injury on the opening day of the season.
Speaking in his post-match press conference, Arteta explained why Rice came off against Wolves.
“He was cramping a bit. He has not had the longest pre-season ever,” Arteta explained.
“He was really trying and put in an unbelievable performance today.”
Fans will be relieved to hear that the midfielder suffered from cramp rather than picking up a knock so early into the campaign.
Losing Rice would be a nightmare
Many of Arteta’s squad are critically important to the side however, very few are as integral as Rice’s presence in midfield.
Since arriving from West Ham last summer, the England international hasn’t looked back, and neither has the shape of the Gunners in the heart of the pitch.
Given how limited Rice’s break was over the summer, it’s unsurprising to hear that the 25-year-old suffered from cramp on the opening day.
Despite only being an Arsenal player for just over a year, it would already be impossible to imagine Arteta’s squad operating without the former West Ham captain in the side, with his presence a priority.
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