Where is William Saliba? Why Arsenal defender is missing Brighton game in Premier League

William Saliba has been an integral part of Arsenal’s challenge for trophies on four fronts this season.

The centre-back has played every minute in the Premier League for the Gunners since December 6 and was credited with the opening goal in last weekend’s 2-1 victory over Chelsea.

It therefore came as a major worry for Arsenal fans when he was surprisingly left out of the matchday squad for Wednesday’s game away to Brighton and Hove Albion.

The Sporting News has the latest below.

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Where is William Saliba? Why Arsenal defender is missing Brighton game

Saliba was expected to be named in the starting lineup but was not even in the squad. Cristhian Mosquera replaced him at the heart of the Gunners’ defence.

Initial reports were that Saliba had suffered an injury that meant he could not be involved at the AMEX Stadium. Arsenal later stated that the France international would not play “after picking up an issue against Chelsea”.

What is William Saliba’s injury?

Saliba has a knock to his ankle, which is why he was forced to miss the Brighton game.

Arteta explained before the match: “He turned his ankle against Chelsea. He managed to finish the game somehow, but he was too sore to play today.”

Early speculation indicated that it was not a serious injury.

William Saliba injury record

Saliba missed three games in the early part of the season with an ankle complaint. He then suffered what was described as “a little niggle” in November that was initially dismissed as minor but ended up keeping him out of four matches through early December.

Saliba has started every league game but one since recovering from that problem in time to face Wolves on December 13. He missed the 1-1 draw with Brentford on February 12 due to illness.

MORE: Arsenal’s complete injury picture and when absent stars will return