Overview
- Smith argues an injury to Rice would remove Arsenal’s midfield drive and set-piece threat, saying there is no like-for-like cover for him.
- Rice told Arsenal Media he now feels he is performing at a really high, consistent level and wants to sustain it week after week.
- Recent signings have allowed Arsenal to ride out absences for key players, yet ongoing fitness issues continue to test that depth.
- Reports note a fresh muscular issue for Gabriel Magalhaes, adding to the list that has included Gabriel Jesus, Kai Havertz, Noni Madueke, Gabriel Martinelli and Martin Odegaard.
- Pundits have reinforced Rice’s stature, with Micah Richards calling the £105m signing among the world’s best and Jack Wilshere saying he can do everything in midfield.