Report: Saliba targeting November return

According to L’Equipe, William Saliba is targeting a return to action in November as he steps up his recovery from a long-standing back problem.

The 25-year-old hasn’t kicked a ball in anger since France’s World Cup semi-final defeat to Spain on 14 July, when he was forced off during the first half.

It’s believed Saliba had been playing through the issue for several weeks. When his Arsenal teammates returned to London Colney for pre-season, the club confirmed that he required “a period of rehabilitation”, although surgery was not necessary.

Arsenal play three times in the first week of November, then break for another Interlull. They resume action with a trip to Newcastle on 21 November, which seems like a reasonable match to aim for.

In Saliba’s absence, the Gunners have leaned heavily on summer signing Ezri Konsa. In truth, Mikel Arteta hasn’t had much choice, with Jurrien Timber still working his way back to full fitness following a groin problem and Cristhian Mosquera suffering an early-season hamstring strain.

The young Spaniard was part of the travelling squad for Arsenal’s defeat at Brighton and should be available after the Interlull. He wasn’t selected for Spain’s Nations League fixtures but has reportedly been using the facilities at former club Valencia, where he was visiting his younger brother, a member of their academy.

Elsewhere, Martin Odegaard appears to have recovered from the kick to the ankle he received from Bernardo Silva during Norway’s defeat to Portugal. He has been included in the squad for tonight’s game against Wales.

Finally, there is optimism that Kai Havertz won’t be sidelined for long by the hamstring problem he picked up while playing for Germany against Holland. The striker returned to London for a scan and could still be in contention to face Leeds on 10 October.

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