News » Premier League news » Arsenal news
Mikel Arteta explains Declan Rice substitution vs Spurs
Mikel Arteta explains Declan Rice substitution vs Spurs
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has revealed that Declan Rice was substituted during the half-time break against Tottenham Hotspur with a back problem.
The England international was struggling with the discomfort throughout the opening half and this was the reason behind the change.
Arteta said: "He had some discomfort in his back. He was telling us during the first half he was not comfortable. Fabio was a tactical decision."
In the absence of Rice, Jorginho was called up off the bench. The Italian was responsible for Spurs' second goal with a howler in midfield.
His hesitation to pass the ball forward saw him intercepted by James Maddison, who put Son Heung-min through on goal to make it 2-2.
With the result, Arsenal have dropped to fifth in the league table with 14 points after Brighton's 3-1 comeback win vs Bournemouth.
The Gunners are now four points adrift of league leaders Manchester City, who seem favourites to win the title for the fourth straight year.
Arsenal news
Arsenal open the door for midfielder's sale
Arsenal set asking price to sell Aaron Ramsdale
Brighton & Hove Albion news
Man Utd open talks with talented Italian manager
Roberto De Zerbi front-runner for Chelsea job?
Tottenham Hotspur news
German attacker set to rejoin Tottenham Hotspur
Tottenham want to sign former Chelsea graduate?
AFC Bournemouth news
Mauricio Pochettino responds to question on his Chelsea future
Moises Caicedo reacts after Chelsea beat Bournemouth