Arsenal believe Declan Rice's back injury is NOT long term

Arsenal are optimistic Declan Rice will not be a long-term injury absentee despite the key midfielder reporting major pain in his back in the hours after Sunday’s 2-2 draw with Tottenham.

Rice, who was substituted at half time of the north London derby with what Mikel Arteta described as back discomfort, is undergoing tests to establish the extent of the injury.

It is understood the pain in the England international’s back intensified so much over night that it restricted his movement amid concerns the Gunners could be without Rice for a period of time.

However, it is understood such discomfort can be usual for such injuries with medics hopeful that Rice won’t be missing for a long period of time.

The Gunners are still to figure out the next steps towards Rice’s return to full fitness but concerns are easing that it isn't a serious injury.

Arsenal face Brentford in the Carabao Cup this weekend and Rice will almost certainly miss the tie.

It remain to be seen whether Rice is available for Saturday’s visit to Bournemouth and then next week’s Champions League clash in Lens.

There is hope, however, that the 24-year-old can play against champions Manchester City a week on Sunday.

Elsewhere, Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli are also expected to return from respective hamstring injuries in time to face Pep Guardiola’s side.

Thomas Partey is making good progress from a groin injury amid hope he is closing in on a return sooner than expected. He was due to return after the October international break.