Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice was forced off during Sunday's North London Derby due to injury, a major worry for Mikel Arteta and Co. The Gunners splashed out a club-record £105million to prise Rice away from West Ham United during the summer transfer window and the tough-tackling midfielder has settled in quickly at the Emirates Stadium.

But he picked up a back issue against Spurs, coming off at half-time in what was eventually a 2-2 draw. With some crucial games coming up over the next fortnight, including a hugely-anticipated clash against Manchester City on October 8, Arsenal supporters will be desperate for the England international to return to fitness sooner rather than later.

So, football.london has rounded up everything that has been reported on the 24-year-old's current fitness status below.

Arsenal return

The Gunners have received a timely boost after it emerged that Rice's injury is not a serious one. football.london understands that after assessment it has emerged that the former West Ham skipper's injury is a minor one.

Rice is still in discomfort and unlikely to be risked for Wednesday evening's Carabao Cup fixture against Brentford. But will be treated over the next few days though and could return to the squad for this weekend's Premier League clash with Bournemouth.

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Arteta update

After the full-time whistle, Gunners boss Arteta confirmed Rice's injury was indeed a back problem. "He had some discomfort in his back," the Spaniard said when asked why the 24-year-old was substituted.

"He was telling us during the first half that he was uncomfortable. When we assessed him at half time he could not continue so we had to change him.

"Hopefully [it's not long term]. We have to assess him. It’s strange that a player like him asked to come off because he was uncomfortable. Hopefully not, but let’s see."

Spurs injury

Rice had to be withdrawn with an injury at half-time of the North London Derby against Tottenham. The England international was replaced by Jorginho - adding to the injury list at the Emirates Stadium, with the likes of Leandro Trossard, Gabriel Martinelli, Thomas Partey and Jurrien Timber all currently sidelined.

Rice was seen on the substitutes bench in the second half with tape around his calf, although it turned out that his issue was back-related instead.