Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta says Declan Rice could be “involved” when the ex-West Ham captain returns to face his former club on Wednesday night.

Arteta did not say whether the England international would start the match at the London Stadium, but he is hoping that the midfielder will be given a warm reception from the home crowd when he does step out onto the pitch:

“He can be involved. It would be his first time back there at his old club and a beautiful moment for him. I think it’s beautiful, I had the experience to do it a few times and then you really see what they think of you and what you left at that club.”

“It’s really good way to measure your experience and the reality of your reality with the people who shared those moments with you.”

The Arsenal midfielder has continued to sing West Ham’s praises since leaving

Rice is forever grateful for the Irons giving him the opportunity to play professional football, and he has been full of praise for the club and its staff even after moving teams.

The continued show of affection from the midfielder has certainly helped Hammers supporters accept his departure.

Rice is expected to be welcomed back

There will be a few fans who may not be too pleased to see the 24-year-old in an Arsenal shirt, but the vast majority are expected to welcome Rice back to his old stomping grounds.

He did not force through a move to the Gunners, and he at no stage refused to train, even when negotiations over a move to the Emirates went on for an extended period. The fact that West Ham will receive £105m from the transfer can’t be overlooked either, as the deal was seen as a fair one by both sides.