Arsenal FC have received a timely boost ahead of their Champions League quarter-final clash, with Declan Rice and Gabriel Magalhães both returning to training, although Bukayo Saka remains absent.
As reported by BBC sport on Monday, Rice was back with the squad after withdrawing from international duty with England during the March break following a medical assessment.
His return will come as a major relief to manager Mikel Arteta, especially with the team looking to steady themselves after consecutive cup defeats.
Defender Gabriel also took part in the session at Arsenal’s London Colney training base, having been forced off with a knee issue during the FA Cup quarter-final loss to Southampton.
His involvement suggests the injury may not be as serious as initially feared.
There was further positive news as Leandro Trossard rejoined full training, giving Arteta additional options in attack ahead of the trip to face Sporting CP in Lisbon.
However, Saka was not involved in Monday’s session after also leaving the England camp early, casting doubt over his availability for the first leg.
Arsenal head into the European tie aiming to avoid a third straight defeat, following their FA Cup exit and Carabao Cup final loss to Manchester City.
Despite those setbacks, the Gunners remain in a strong position domestically, sitting top of the Premier League table as they chase a first league title since the 2003–04 season.
They will return to league action against AFC Bournemouth after their Champions League encounter.
Arteta, along with goalkeeper David Raya, is expected to address the media in Portugal ahead of the crucial fixture.
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