Mikel Arteta planning tactical switch to cope with Saka injury… and it could mean position change for star Arsenal man
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MIKEL ARTETA is praying Declan Rice’s versatility can help Arsenal cope without Bukayo Saka. A torn hamstring looks set to rule out England winger Saka until at least March in a massive blow to the Gunners’ title hopes. Boss Arteta has been pondering how to set up the team in his absence — and midfielder Rice, 25, will be key to whatever he decides.
![[Arsenal take on Ipswich in the Premier League during the holidays]](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/bukayo-saka-arsenal-celebrates-teammates-951576136.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
Three Lions enforcer Rice can operate in a defensive midfield role or further up the field. And Arteta hinted he could be having a go at each of them in a busy festive period that kicks off with Friday night’s Premier League visit of Ipswich. The Spaniard, 42, explained: “With the squad that we have, he needs to be versatile.
![[Arsenal may be without Bukayo Saka until at least March]](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2024-arsenals-bukayo-saka-receives-959018573.jpg?strip=all&w=804)
“With the qualities that he has, he needs to be versatile. With the brain that he has, he needs to be versatile. With the age that he is, he needs to be versatile. “He can offer so much in relation to the opponent, to the needs in the squad. Putting Declan in a box, there’s no point in my opinion.”.
![[Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta may be set for a major tactical change]](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/arsenal-manager-mikel-arteta-premier-959461502_05c431.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
The Gunners, who are six points behind leaders Liverpool having played a game extra, travel to Brentford and then Brighton in the league at the start of January. Then, they host Newcastle in the first leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final, with the winners taking on Tottenham or Liverpool at Wembley.
![[Arsenal star Declan Rice may be fielded in midfield or attack]](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/declan-rice-arsenal-reacts-premier-947314639.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS. That all adds up to a host of opponents with markedly different styles and Arteta will be relying on Rice to keep the Gunners in shape. The Emirates chief explained: “He’s going play as a No 6 against a low block in relation to what the nine does, he’s going to be with the centre-backs. If the No 10 is man-marking him, he’s going to have another role.”.
