Arsenal are optimistic Declan Rice will not be a long-term injury absentee despite the midfielder suffering with major back pain in the hours after Sunday’s 2-2 draw with Tottenham.

Rice, who was substituted at half-time in the north London derby with what manager Mikel Arteta described as back discomfort, is having tests to establish the extent of the injury.

It is understood the England international’s movement became more restricted as his pain intensified overnight amid concerns the Gunners could be without Rice for a period of time.

However, it is understood such discomfort can be usual for such injuries with medics hopeful that Rice will not be missing for long.

The Gunners are still to figure out the next steps towards Rice’s return to full fitness but concerns that the injury is serious are easing.

Arsenal are optimistic Declan Rice will not be a long-term injury after complaining of back pain

The midfielder was substituted at half-time against Tottenham on Sunday afternoon

Arsenal face Brentford in the Carabao Cup tomorrow night and Rice will almost certainly miss the third round tie.

The Gunners aren’t ruling out Rice being available for Saturday’s visit to Bournemouth and next week’s Champions League clash in Lens.

With that in mind it is increasingly likely that the 24-year-old could play against champions Manchester City a week on Sunday, if not before then.

Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli are also expected to return from hamstring injuries in time to face Pep Guardiola’s side. Trossard could be available this weekend.

Thomas Partey is making good progress from a groin injury amid hope he is closing in on a return sooner than expected.

The Ghanaian had been due to return after the October international break. Tottenham duo James Maddison and Brennan Johnson also limped off on Sunday.

Maddison appeared to hyper-extend his knee in the second half and received treatment before being substituted.

The England international has had tests but there is hope the attacker is not facing a sustained period on the sidelines.

Similarly, Johnson was substituted with what appeared to be a hamstring injury at the Emirates — but there was a feeling yesterday that his exit from the game was precautionary after he complained of muscle tightness.