Mikel Arteta issues Declan Rice update and hints Arsenal star's injury is 'more complicated'

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Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta was optimistic about welcoming Declan Rice back for the Gunners' weekend match against Aston Villa . The England midfielder was unable to finish Wednesday's victory over Brentford but things don't look as bad as some have feared.

"Well, let's see," Arteta told reporters on Friday. "I think with all the questions I'm going to get, the answer, unfortunately, is going to be the same. We have another training session in the afternoon.

"Every hour is going to be very important to see the availability of the players. After that, we'll decide who travels."

Arteta was also asked about Cristhian Mosquera after the centre-back was forced off in the first half on Wednesday. "That's the one that is more complicated. But again, we have another test today to see where we are with them," Arteta added.

Rice had earlier played down his injury risk , and his initial assesessment offered the Gunners cause for optimism. However, they may still have to call on all their reserves at the back due to Mosquera's blow.

The win against Brentford meant Arsenal go into their Saturday lunchtime kick-off with a five-point lead at the top of the Premier League table. Manchester City had briefly closed the gap on Tuesday night, fending off a late rally to win 5-4 at Fulham .

With Pep Guardiola's side not in action until 3pm on Saturday, the Gunners have a chance to increase the gap to eight before City host Sunderland . It won't be easy, though, with Villa currently third in the table after their 4-3 win at Brighton .

"Every time you win a game obviously you are a little bit closer to your objective and it is the only thing we can do," Arteta said. "We have to focus on performing, preparing really well for tomorrow so we know the kind of game we are going to play and be ready to fulfill our potential."

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Arsenal were without several other stars for their midweek win. Gabriel and William Saliba weren't able to return at centre-back, while Leandro Trossard and Kai Havertz are still missing from the attacking roster.

"It is a matter of days with those two," Arteta said when addressing Saliba and Trossard. However, he has previously indicated Gabriel and Havertz will have to wait a little longer before returning to first-team action.

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