Mikel Arteta reveals why Declan Rice has been left out of Arsenal squad for Premier League clash with Liverpool

Rice was left out of the Arsenal squad to take on Liverpool on Sunday afternoon. The England international featured in Wednesday's loss to Paris Saint-Germain which knocked the Gunners out of the Champions League and wasn't named in the starting XI or on the bench for the trip to Anfield.

Arsenal visit Liverpool on Sunday afternoon, having battled the Reds for the Premier League title for much of the season. Rice has been a key performer once again, providing a goal threat from midfield, but Thomas Partey, Mikel Merino and Martin Odegaard will start in the middle of the park on Merseyside in the former West Ham star's absence.

Arteta said: "Him [Rice] and Jurrien [Timber] are not fit - Declan couldn't even train so he's injured unfortunately and couldn't make the game."

Injuries have been a key factor in Arsenal falling short in their Premier League title bid but a busy summer of transfer activity is expected in north London. Martin Zubimendi will arrive from Real Sociedad to bolster their midfield, while a central striker is also likely to be sought.

After Sunday's battle with Liverpool, Arsenal face Newcastle and Southampton in their final two Premier League fixtures.