Mikel Arteta admits Arsenal star is ‘shattered’ ahead of Manchester City clash

Mikel Arteta admits Declan Rice was ‘shattered’ before playing in Arsenal’s goalless draw with Sporting CP in the Champions League on Wednesday night.

Arsenal sealed their place in the Champions League semi-final where they will meet Atletico Madrid after a goalless draw at the Emirates Stadium.

Rice, meanwhile, did not train before the game due to illness but was handed the captain’s armband and went on to play a full 90 minutes against the Portuguese champions.

Arsenal now turn their attention back to the Premier League as they face Manchester City on Sunday in a game which will play a significant role in who will be crowned champions this season.

Speaking after Arsenal’s draw against Sporting, Arteta hailed Rice’s commitment but revealed that the midfielder was told he had ‘no chance’ of playing in Wednesday’s match due to his illness this week.

‘That is the reason why we are the only English team in the competition, because this league and this schedule takes the hell out of you, and it’s very difficult to do what we’ve done,’ said Arteta.

‘We are not perfect, we need to improve things, that’s for sure, we recognise that, but there’s value in what these players have done, because they deserve it.

‘Declan yesterday, he was shattered. He had no chance to play today, he wasn’t feeling good at all today, he played 94 minutes at the level that he’s done.

‘Piero [Hincapie] the same, every single player is putting everything through the line to contribute, to give his best, and I really value that from the team.’

Arteta also revealed that it was not his decision to make Rice captain for the game and claims it was a call made by the Arsenal squad.

‘They made a decision,’ Arteta said.

‘They made a decision because Declan has earned the status and the role.

‘The way he’s taken ownership in difficult moments. He’s a great leader, he’s a top player for us and I love that the players take that ownership.’

For more stories like this, check our sport page.

Follow Metro Sport for the latest news on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.