Saliba returns to Arsenal training as Arteta faces centre-back selection call
William Saliba is back in full training after a back injury, giving Mikel Arteta a welcome but difficult decision over a defence where Ezri Konsa and Gabriel Magalhaes have impressed.
William Saliba has returned to full first-team training at Arsenal after missing the entire campaign so far with a back problem. The injury followed his early withdrawal in France's World Cup semi-final defeat by Spain, and he has been doing individual work at the club's base, though Arsenal say they will remain cautious over his comeback.
Saliba, a key figure in last season's Premier League title win, had been managing the issue through that campaign before being sent to a specialist after the World Cup. Surgery was not required, but a lengthy rehabilitation was, with no timescale set for his return. He and Gabriel Magalhaes formed the backbone of a side that conceded only 27 league goals, and he was named in the PFA team of the year for a fourth consecutive time.
In his absence, £55m summer signing Ezri Konsa has slotted in alongside Gabriel, starting seven of Arsenal's nine league games. The pair have helped the Gunners to the top of the table with the division's tightest defence, five goals conceded, and Konsa scored the opener in the 2-0 win at Everton before another strong display in the victory at Anfield. Arteta has described how the defender has settled as "unbelievable".
Saliba's return leaves the manager with a choice. Konsa could shift to right-back, where he started for England in the World Cup quarter-final against Norway, allowing Saliba to partner Gabriel again, though Ben White and Jurrien Timber are established options there. A reduced role for young centre-back Cristhian Mosquera may also prompt questions about his future.
Arsenal host Hull on Saturday before the international break, which should give Saliba more time to build fitness. With 63 games played in all competitions last season and a title defence plus European ambitions this term, Arteta is likely to need rotation across his defensive options.
Supporters have been impressed by Konsa's aggression and speed, and some have suggested his partnership with Gabriel is among the best in world football. Such views are fan opinion rather than established fact, but they underline the pressure on Arteta to choose between in-form players and a proven title-winning defender.
Image: Getty Images / BBC Sport
