The Digest:
Declan Rice was not present in Arsenal's open training session ahead of their Champions League quarter-final second leg against Sporting CP, raising concerns ahead of a huge week. Jurrien Timber, Bukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard, and Riccardo Calafiori also remain absent. Arsenal lead 1-0 on aggregate and face a crucial Premier League title clash with Manchester City on Sunday. With back-up Mikel Merino also injured, Arteta faces a midfield selection dilemma.
Key Points:
- Rice's absence does not rule him out, but it is a concern.
- Christian Norgaard is the only other available sitting midfielder.
- Kai Havertz could play in midfield alongside Zubimendi and Eze.
- Leandro Trossard and Myles Lewis-Skelly are other potential options.
- Arsenal face Sporting on Wednesday then Man City on Sunday.
Sources: Sky Sports
