Declan Rice Included in Arsenal Squad for Bournemouth Clash: A Major Boost for the Gunners

Arsenal fans received welcome news as Declan Rice was confirmed to be part of the travelling squad for the Premier League fixture against Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium.

The England international, who missed the midweek 4-1 victory over Aston Villa due to knee inflammation, was spotted joining his teammates on their traditional pre-match walk this morning. Multiple sources, including reliable Arsenal correspondents and club insiders, reported Rice's inclusion, with photos circulating on social media showing him with the group ahead of the 5:30 PM kick-off.

Rice's absence against Villa had raised concerns after he sustained a knock during Arsenal's hard-fought 2-1 win over Brighton on December 27. Despite completing the full 90 minutes in that game—where he unusually filled in at right-back—the midfielder developed significant swelling in his knee, forcing him to sit out the subsequent match. Mikel Arteta, in his pre-match press conference on January 2, expressed caution, stating that the swelling had not fully subsided and that a final decision would depend on how Rice responded in training. "Not yet," Arteta said when asked if the inflammation had reduced. "We have another session today; let's see how he comes through."

However, Rice's determination to return shone through. Reports indicate he pushed hard to feature against Villa but was ultimately rested as a precaution. His travel to Bournemouth and participation in the pre-match routine signal a positive recovery, providing a massive boost for Arsenal as they aim to extend their lead at the top of the Premier League table. A win today could see the Gunners pull seven points clear of second-placed Manchester City, who drew 0-0 with Sunderland on New Year's Day.

Rice has been a cornerstone of Arsenal's midfield this season, starting 35 of their previous 37 league games before the Villa setback. His blend of defensive solidity, progressive passing, and leadership has been instrumental in the team's title challenge. Without him against Villa, Arsenal still dominated, but his potential availability adds depth and quality, especially with upcoming fixtures against Liverpool on January 8 and a busy January schedule featuring nine games across four competitions.

While Rice's inclusion is encouraging, Arteta faces decisions on whether to start him or ease him back from the bench, given the risk of aggravating the injury. Other team news confirms absences: defenders Riccardo Calafiori and Cristhian Mosquera are ruled out, joining youngster Max Dowman on the sidelines.

Bournemouth, under Andoni Iraola, pose a tricky test on the south coast—a venue where Arsenal suffered a defeat last season due to a red card for William Saliba.