Arsenal: Mikel Arteta sends France clear William Saliba message before squad selection

Saliba has recovered from a back injury sustained at the World Cup and returned to Arsenal's squad; Arteta says the club will accept his selection for France's Nations League matches.

William Saliba has not featured for Arsenal this season after suffering a back injury during Spain's World Cup semi-final defeat of France in July. The centre-back has stepped up his recovery in recent weeks and made his first return to the matchday squad on Wednesday as an unused substitute against Slavia Prague in the Champions League.

With France set to announce their squad for upcoming Nations League matches against Italy and Turkey, Saliba is in contention for selection. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta confirmed on Friday that the club has been in close contact with French medical staff and will accept whatever decision Zinedine Zidane makes. Arteta suggested that international minutes could help build Saliba's fitness as he works his way back to full availability for Arsenal.