Mikel Arteta has provided an Arsenal injury update ahead of tomorrow’s Carabao Cup quarter-final against Crystal Palace, confirming that Declan Rice is available again after a recent scare, but Oleksandr Zinchenko and Riccardo Calafiori will remain absent.

Declan Rice was taken off the field after 62 minutes of Arsenal’s goalless draw with Everton on Saturday, raising concerns about his fitness. Arteta explained after the game: “He’s had a little problem for about a week. He needs to be replaced at this moment. We have to do it.” However, the manager has since attempted to allay fears by stating that Rice is “fine” and able to train with the team.

Whether Rice will feature against Palace remains to be seen, particularly with a crucial league game against the same opponents coming up at the weekend. Arteta could opt for caution as he is keen to manage Rice’s workload given Arsenal’s demanding schedule.

Rotation remains a key focus for Arteta as he juggles injuries and the relentless frequency of games. “We managed the squad in the best possible way,” he said in his pre-match press conference.

“We have made sure everyone who is fit and available feels part of it and is ready when the team needs them. If we have to make changes, I’m sure the guys coming in will do so, and others will have to play too because of the (short) numbers.”

While Rice’s availability is encouraging, Arsenal’s problems at left-back continue.

Oleksandr Zinchenko, who has been missing since the game against Manchester United, remains unavailable. Zinchenko’s exclusion from the squad for the December 8 game against Fulham raised questions about his condition, but Arteta has yet to provide any clarity on his situation. The Ukrainian’s continued absence is undoubtedly a cause for concern, especially given the heavy fixture load.

Riccardo Calafiori’s situation also remains uncertain.

The Italian defender, who has been sidelined since the game against West Ham with a groin problem, has yet to be cleared to return. Arteta previously explained: “We are just respecting the times set by the medical department. We monitor him every day. And we understand he’s not quite ready yet, but he’s getting very close now.”

However, Calafiori remains under review with no definitive timetable for his return.