By Islam El-Sakka
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that defender William Saliba is fit and available for selection after a lengthy back injury layoff.
Saliba returns to training
Saliba, a key figure in Arsenal's Premier League title win last season, has not played this season due to a back injury sustained during the World Cup. He was spotted in first-team training on Tuesday morning.
Arteta confirms readiness
Speaking ahead of Arsenal's Champions League match against Slavia Prague, Arteta said Saliba came through a behind-closed-doors friendly without setbacks and is ready to play. The manager indicated the 25-year-old could be used immediately, noting that centre-backs typically need to play 90 minutes and the club has managed his workload carefully.
Selection options increase
The return creates a selection dilemma, as summer signing Ezri Konsa has formed a strong partnership with Gabriel in Saliba's absence. Arteta suggested Konsa could shift to right-back to accommodate Saliba, adding that the versatility of both players provides more options for managing fixture congestion.
Defensive strength
Arsenal have kept four consecutive clean sheets in the Premier League, including a 1-0 win at Liverpool, and Arteta welcomes the added defensive depth as the team competes on multiple fronts.
