Arsenal fans spot hobbling Declan Rice mouth ‘hammy’ to team-mates with England star at risk of long injury layoff

ARSENAL fans spotted Declan Rice signal he had a hamstring injury as he limped off during his side’s 5-0 win over Crystal Palace… and Mikel Arteta has confirmed it.

The former West Ham captain, 25, was replaced by Jorginho in the 73rd minute on Saturday afternoon.

Declan Rice appeared to tell Emile Smith Rowe there was a problem with his ‘hammy’Getty

He had a word with Mikel Arteta and the coaching staff after being substitutedGetty

And as he made his way off the pitch, Arsenal supporters believe he told Emile Smith Rowe he had an issue with his “hammy”.

Reacting to the claim, one fan said: “I pray it is not true.”

Another added: “Hope he’ll be OK. 10 days off now so that’s good for him.”

While a third replied: “Knew there would be something to ruin this perfect day.”

Gunners boss Mikel Arteta was quizzed about the midfielder’s injury problem after the game.

To which he replied: “Declan was feeling something, a sensation in the hamstring at 3-0.

“Gabriel, he had a tackle I think in the first half on his knee and I think he was a little bit struggling.”

When asked if it was a serious issue, he added: “I hope not but let’s see.”

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Rice has been an integral part of Arsenal’s side this season, starting all 21 of their Premier League games.

And he will be a big miss for Arteta if he is sidelined as replacement Thomas Partey is already on the treatment table.

Arsenal ended a run of four games without a win with their comfortable victory over Palace.

They now have 10 days off before they travel to Nottingham Forest on January 30.

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