ARSENAL fans spotted Declan Rice signal he had a hamstring injury as he limped off during his side’s 5-0 win over Crystal Palace… and Mikel Arteta has confirmed it.

The former West Ham captain, 25, was replaced by Jorginho in the 73rd minute on Saturday afternoon.

Declan Rice appeared to tell Emile Smith Rowe there was a problem with his ‘hammy’

He had a word with Mikel Arteta and the coaching staff after being substituted

And as he made his way off the pitch, Arsenal supporters believe he told Emile Smith Rowe he had an issue with his “hammy”.

Reacting to the claim, one fan said: “I pray it is not true.”

Another added: “Hope he’ll be OK. 10 days off now so that’s good for him.”

While a third replied: “Knew there would be something to ruin this perfect day.”

Gunners boss Mikel Arteta was quizzed about the midfielder’s injury problem after the game.

To which he replied: “Declan was feeling something, a sensation in the hamstring at 3-0.

“Gabriel, he had a tackle I think in the first half on his knee and I think he was a little bit struggling.”

When asked if it was a serious issue, he added: “I hope not but let’s see.”

This season, Rice has started every one of Arsenal’s 21 Premier League games, demonstrating his importance to the team.

And if he is injured, Arteta will really miss him because Thomas Partey, his replacement, is already ailing.

Arsenal’s easy victory over Palace put an end to their four-game losing streak.

They will now have ten days off before their January 30 trip to Nottingham Forest.