Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta smirks at Declan Rice question ahead of West Ham return

Mikel Arteta failed to keep a straight face after being asked whether Declan Rice would get a good reception back at West Ham.

Arsenal prised the England international away from the London Stadium in the summer in a deal rising to £105million.

His exit hurt the Hammers faithful, who had been hoping he would reject a move to a London rival and instead join either Manchester City or seek a transfer abroad.

The 24-year-old has been nothing short of sensational since linking up with the Gunners — chipping in with two goals and as many assists from 14 games in all competitions.

But he could be in line for a potential hostile reception when he returns to his former stomping ground on Wednesday night for the Carabao Cup fourth round encounter.

Rice captained West Ham to their first trophy in 43 years last season when David Moyes' side triumphed over Fiorentina in the Europa Conference League final.

However it remains to be seen what reaction he will get in Stratford, with Arteta left chuckling after being asked if Rice will be welcomed back warmly.

Through smiles, he said: «I will say so. I hope so!

»Every time you hear him talk about West Ham and what they did for him and everybody at the club, he cannot talk any higher, so hopefully it will be the same way towards him."

Arteta also hinted that Rice will play some part in the match, despite Saturday's trip to Newcastle, while also claiming the reception he gets will determine the legacy he left behind.

He remarked: «He can be involved, it will be his first time back at his old club, it will be a beautiful moment for him.»

The Spaniard continued: «I think it's beautiful [returning to former club].

»I had the experience of doing it a few times [while playing for Arsenal against Everton],