Mikel Arteta provides Saliba, Saka & Arsenal injury update ahead of Nottingham clash in Premier League Matchday 4
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Positive update on William Saliba!
Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta has given a favourable update on William Saliba and a fitness update on three additional players ahead of Saturday’s Premier League match against Nottingham Forest.
Saliba, star defender, was forced to leave the France squad due to an ankle injury sustained in the Gunners’ 1-0 loss to Liverpool before the international break.
Saliba only seemed to have suffered a minor sprain, but predictions of a potential three- to four-week absence were a little surprise considering that he was able to limp into the mixed zone at Anfield.
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Arteta updates on Saliba and Saka’s availability for Forest game
However, Arteta stated during Friday’s pregame press conference that the centre-back participated in practice and was eligible to play against Forest on Saturday at lunchtime.
“William Saliba trained today, so we have a decision to make if we play him or not. It’s very good news.”
Bukayo Saka suffered a hamstring injury during Arsenal’s victory against Leeds United last month, and the winger is currently sidelined, Arteta added:
‘Bukayo (Saka) is out. He is still out, and he is trying to get back as quick as possible. We need to respect that process.”
Other players’ injury update
More encouragingly, Christian Norgaard and Ben White both participated in team training on Thursday and are anticipated to be considered for the squad against Ange Postecoglou’s team.
However, for Saliba, Arteta will take precaution and is likely to start Cristhian Mosquera, who replaced the Frenchman against the Reds.
While Riccardo Calafiori and new recruit Piero Hincapie are not completely out of the running to be deployed as left-back, while White’s return gives the Spaniard another option.
Will Saliba play against Forest?
The centre-back could be back to play against Forest.
How long will Saka be out?
Saka is set to miss up to four weeks.
Where do Arsenal stand in the Premier League?
They are currently third in the league table.
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