Arsenal Defender William Saliba Returns to Full Training Before Slavia Prague Match

Saliba Returns to Training

Arsenal center back William Saliba has returned to full squad training. The French defender took part in Tuesday's session, just one day before Arsenal play Slavia Prague in the Champions League.

Saliba has been out of action for three and a half months. He has not played since being substituted in the first half of France's 2-0 loss to Spain in the World Cup semifinals. Arsenal confirmed in July that his back injury did not require surgery, but needed a long period of rehabilitation.

Arteta Gives Fitness Update

Manager Mikel Arteta spoke to reporters in a pre-game news conference on Tuesday. He said that Saliba is in a really good place and comfortable after his recovery process.

Arteta stated that Saliba's progress has gone as expected, noting that this is not always the case with injuries. Saliba played 45 minutes in a match behind closed doors last week. Arteta said the defender feels ready to go now, but explained that using him will depend on what the team needs.

Squad Depth and Selections

Saliba formed a strong center back partnership with Gabriel Magalhães that was key to Arsenal winning the Premier League last season. Even with his ball playing skills and reading of the game, Arsenal might not rush him back into the starting team immediately.

Summer signing Ezri Konsa has put in several strong performances in Saliba's place. Arteta might choose to keep that defensive combination together for now. One option is switching Konsa to right back, a position he played at times for Aston Villa and England. Arsenal also have Jurriën Timber and Ben White available at right back.

When asked if having all three center backs available was a problem, Arteta laughed and said they have not had that luxury so far. He explained that having these options will allow Arsenal to manage player workload and match congestion much better.