Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta revealed that both Declan Rice and William Saliba remain doubtful for the upcoming matches following recent knocks, with fitness still to be assessed.
After the 2-0 victory over Brentford, Arteta admitted the club is still waiting on clarity over Rice and Saliba’s conditions.
“We don’t know,” said Arteta. “Declan had to come off… and Saliba is being assessed to see if he’s ready.”
Arteta explained the need for further tests before deciding whether either player will be available for the trip to Aston Villa this weekend.
With both first-choice centre-backs already unavailable, he warned the squad could face an even deeper defensive squeeze.