Arsenal given solution to Ezri Konsa vs William Saliba problem as injured star returns to training

Saliba returns to training after back surgery; Ferdinand suggests Konsa could move to right-back to accommodate both defenders.

William Saliba is closing in on a return to action after undergoing surgery on a long-term back problem that has sidelined him since July. The France centre-back has not played since the World Cup semi-finals, leading Arsenal to sign Ezri Konsa from Aston Villa for £55 million. Konsa has made an immediate impact, helping the Gunners keep three consecutive Premier League clean sheets.

With Saliba widely regarded as one of the top-flight's best defenders and a four-time PFA team-of-the-year selection, manager Mikel Arteta faces a selection dilemma. Rio Ferdinand has suggested a solution on his YouTube channel, proposing that Konsa could move to right-back once Saliba returns to full fitness. "I think Saliba is one of those guys that you have to find room for in the team. He's that good, he's top," Ferdinand said. "I wouldn't be surprised if Konsa goes back to right-back once Saliba comes back."

Konsa has demonstrated versatility throughout his career, having played right-back for both Aston Villa and England on multiple occasions. Saliba and Gabriel formed a crucial defensive partnership during Arsenal's Premier League title win last season, conceding just 27 league goals across the campaign.