Arsenal must tread carefully with Rice to avoid losing midfield asset

Mikel Arteta warned that Arsenal must handle Declan Rice with caution this season, or risk losing the England midfielder to a serious injury. Rice pulled out of the England squad at the start of the international break, citing concerns over overload after a demanding club and country schedule.

Other players' fitness concerns

Ben White, Piero Hincapie and Cristhian Mosquera have resumed training, easing fears of a brutal international break for Arsenal. Arteta also suggested Kai Havertz and Ezri Konsa could be available. Havertz was withdrawn from the Germany squad with a hamstring issue, while Konsa returned before England’s win over the Czech Republic at Wembley on Tuesday.

“Yeah, we have to manage him because he's had a few issues since he came back from the World Cup,” Arteta said. “Hopefully tomorrow he's available, and some others also are in doubt.” The manager’s comments underline the precarious fitness picture ahead of the Leeds clash.

The 27‑year‑old played through a nerve issue in his hamstring at the World Cup in the summer, yet still helped Arsenal to Premier League success and a place in the Champions League final.

He could feature against Leeds as domestic action returns this weekend, but Arteta conceded he would have to be cautious with Rice.

Meanwhile, Christos Tzolis faces several weeks on the sidelines with his own hamstring problem, while Max Dowman is fit to bolster the Arsenal squad.

The defending champions were beaten by Brighton in their last game and sit three points behind Manchester City in the Premier League table.

Arsenal will learn tomorrow whether Rice and the other doubtful players can train, a decision that could shape the club’s title challenge.