Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice is determined to play through the pain barrier in Sunday’s clash against Chelsea, despite being sidelined for the club’s 1-0 defeat to Inter Milan.
Rice sustained a broken toe during Arsenal’s loss to Newcastle last weekend, which ruled him out of their Champions League match at the San Siro.
However, the 25-year-old has been named in England’s squad for their upcoming Nations League fixtures against Greece and the Republic of Ireland.
There is growing optimism that Rice will also be fit to feature in the crucial London derby at Stamford Bridge.
Earlier this week, Declan Rice struggled to put on a boot and was unable to train properly, but it’s not uncommon for players to play with broken toes.
Arsenal remain hopeful that their key midfielder will overcome the injury in time to face Chelsea.
Manager Mikel Arteta is desperate for Rice’s availability as Arsenal’s season hangs in the balance.
The Gunners have fallen seven points behind in the title race and have now suffered three defeats in their last six matches, including the setback against Inter Milan.
While Rice admitted feeling fatigued after a busy summer, including his participation in the European Championships, he is eager to contribute for both club and country.
England will need him for their final two Nations League fixtures, adding extra pressure on the midfielder.
Ahead of the Inter defeat, Arteta commented on Rice’s injury, saying: “Declan unfortunately picked up an injury against Newcastle.
“It is a knock, a problem on his foot, and he wasn’t comfortable to put his boots on so at the moment he is not fit.
“He wasn’t feeling good the last few days.
“We’ll have to assess him on Thursday and see if he’s ready for Chelsea.”
Former Chelsea striker Kai Havertz has confirmed that he is fit to play in Chelsea’s match on Sunday.
Havertz, who sustained a serious head wound during a clash of heads in Chelsea’s game against Inter Milan, was cleared of concussion and has assured medical staff that he has not experienced any lingering symptoms.
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