Arsenal is optimistic about Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka’s return for their upcoming Premier League match against Nottingham Forest, despite recent injuries.
Rice, who played against Chelsea with a broken toe, was subbed off in the 71st minute of the 1-1 draw on Sunday. Saka, who also left the game ten minutes later due to a leg injury, received treatment on the field before being replaced.
Initially, both players were included in England’s squad for the Nations League matches against Greece and the Republic of Ireland, led by interim head coach Lee Carsley. However, they later withdrew from the national team duties as Rice’s injury had required him to play with painkillers against Chelsea.
This week, Rice and Saka began rehabilitation at Arsenal’s London Colney training ground. The current assessment suggests they have a good chance of being fit for the Nottingham Forest game, with Saka appearing to be further along in his recovery than Rice.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta acknowledged the team’s struggles with injuries this season, recently expressing concerns about the squad’s luck. Captain Martin Odegaard just rejoined the lineup after a two-month absence due to an ankle injury, while defender Ben White is now expected to miss at least six weeks following minor knee surgery.
In addition to Rice and Saka’s hopeful return, defenders Riccardo Calafiori and Takehiro Tomiyasu are projected to be back in action after the international break, providing some much-needed reinforcement to the Gunners’ backline.
Arsenal fans will be keenly watching updates on the injury list, as Arteta aims to navigate the busy Premier League schedule with key players back on the field.
