Journalist shares update from “within the Arsenal camp” after Sunday’s 2-2 draw

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Arsenal fans have been given an update from “within the” Gunners camp about William Saliba after Sunday’s 2-2 draw.

What’s the story?

Well, the update – provided by Sami Mokbel of the Daily Mail – involves both Saliba and Manchester City.

It is said that the France international is willing to play while injured in a bid to keep Arsenal‘s Premier League title hopes alive.

Saliba has been struggling with a back injury since he was forced off early in Arsenal’s Europa League clash against Sporting Lisbon at the Emirates Stadium.

The Arsenal No.12 has missed the last four Premier League outings as a result.

However, those “within the Arsenal camp” acknowledge that next Wednesday’s clash against Manchester City could basically decide the title race, so Saliba could start even though it is considered a major risk by the Gunners.

The Frenchman is crucial to how Mikel Arteta wants his side to play, and with all due respect, Rob Holding is nowhere near as effective alongside Gabriel Magalhaes in defence.

Saliba himself is said to be prepared to return to action even though he risks suffering a major setback in his rehabilitation.

The 22-year-old has arguably been one of Arsenal’s best players this season in his first full campaign as part of the starting XI, making 33 appearances in all competitions.

Arsenal should risk Saliba

In our view, this is a risk worth taking for Arsenal.

The drop off in defensive assurance since Holding replaced Saliba has been noticeable, and with the title now on the line, Arteta needs to start making some bold calls.

Yes, the Spaniard could cause further harm to the Frenchman if he plays and suffers a setback.

However, Arsenal have nothing else to play for this season other than the Premier League title, so they may as well go all out – additionally, Saliba is willing to play through the pain, so the Gunners should risk it.

By the sounds of Mokbel’s story, that is exactly what Arsenal are going to do, so be sure to keep an eye on the starting XI this Friday to see if Saliba is involved against Southampton before Wednesday’s encounter against Manchester City.