Saliba (back) is fit and available for Saturday's Premier League clash against Hull City after returning to normal training, with coach Mikel Arteta also addressing his potential inclusion in new France coach Zinedine Zidane's upcoming squad. "We've been in very close contact [with France], I think they're announcing at 5pm this evening, so they have all the information. Now it's about them, about Zinedine [Zidane] in this case, to give the call. We will accept whatever it is. It's more between them, because William needs minutes as well. I know how much he loves to be around the national team, it's a new manager, a really exciting one as well, so whatever he's decided is fine for us."
Analysis:Saliba is closing in on his first competitive appearance of the season after recovering from the back injury that has kept him sidelined since the World Cup. The French center-back returned to Arsenal's matchday squad for Wednesday's Champions League victory over Slavia Prague but remained an unused substitute, having previously played 45 minutes in a behind-closed-doors friendly to rebuild his fitness. His participation in Friday's training session confirms that he is ready for selection, although coach Arteta's comments suggest that regaining competitive sharpness remains a priority. Saliba could challenge for a starting position against Hull City, particularly with Ezri Konsa having experienced knee discomfort during Wednesday's encounter, although the latter has also been declared fit. Gabriel remains another established option in central defense, giving Arteta several alternatives ahead of the international break. Saliba's minutes could initially be managed following his lengthy absence.
