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Arsenal are optimistic Declan Rice has avoided injury in a major boost ahead of Saturday's crunch trip to Aston Villa.

The powerhouse midfielder, who was crucial to victory against Brentford on Wednesday night, was forced off with seven minutes left to play due to a calf problem.

Rice was spotted pointing to the back of his calf as he received treatment, however, there was internal confidence last night that the England international was just fatigued following another gruelling shift in the middle of the park.

The 26-year-old was able to walk around the pitch after the full-time whistle to applaud the home crowd and as he left the Emirates Stadium, he also told Sky Sports he was "fine".

Rice will still be assessed before Arsenal train on Friday but the current expectation

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