Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has admitted he is concerned about the fitness of Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice after both players picked up injuries during the Gunners’ 1-1 Premier League draw against Chelsea on Sunday.
The duo were forced off during the London derby at Stamford Bridge, raising fresh injury concerns ahead of England’s upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures. Softfootball understands the pair are now major doubts for international duty, with Arsenal expected to closely monitor their recovery.
Speaking after the match, Arteta suggested neither player is likely to be fit in time to join the England squad.
“It doesn’t look good,” the Spaniard said after the game.
According to Arteta, it is always a worrying sign when two key players ask to be substituted because they are unable to continue.
He also indicated that he does not expect either Saka or Rice to be available for England’s Nations League matches, insisting they would not have left the pitch if they were in a condition to keep playing.
England are preparing for clashes against Greece and the Republic of Ireland during the international break, but the Arsenal duo are expected to remain in London to focus on their rehabilitation ahead of the Gunners’ Premier League meeting with Nottingham Forest.
