But concerns now exist that the change represented more than merely bringing on refreshed personnel. The Arsenal midfielder has been troubled by lower back and hamstring issues since last Christmas. During the World Cup, the former West Ham prospect discussed openly the nerve discomfort he experienced throughout last season and while in the United States.

Rice pulled out of Thomas Tuchel's England squad for the Nations League fixtures against Czechia, Croatia and Spain, a choice believed to be connected to workload management. Whether Rice's withdrawal against Everton was purely precautionary for an existing complaint remains to be seen.

Arsenal face Fleetwood Town in the Carabao Cup on Tuesday, presenting an opportunity to rest Rice ahead of the Premier League clash with Liverpool. Gunners boss Mikel Arteta had further injury concerns at the Emirates. Riccardo Calafiori also sustained a knock after being introduced during the second half.

The Italian international saw out the match, though his problem meant Noni Madueke ended the game filling in at left-back. "Yeah I wasn't that mad to change those two from their positions," Arteta said during his press conference. "It was because he had a slight issue, we don't know what it is, it seems to be something very small, but he was cautious about it."

Arteta was full of admiration for his defender. "Well, he's a clear example, when I'm talking about the mentality of the team, obviously the mentality of the team is the mentality of the individuals in the team," the Spaniard said.

"Gabi is a great example of that because we were all scared. Not because of the way he went down, but the reaction of the players that were next to him. Immediately, he says that he wants to continue, and then he scores a goal to help us win the game. That's what we need from our players."