Saliba Back in Arsenal Training as Gunners Get Timely Boost Before Slavia Trip

Arsenal have received a welcome lift at the top of the Premier League table, with William Saliba back in first-team training after a lengthy spell on the sidelines. The French centre-back has been out since suffering a back injury during France's World Cup campaign, and his absence has been felt even as the Gunners built a three-point lead at the summit, winning eight of their first nine league matches. Summer signing Ezri Konsa has deputised impressively alongside Gabriel Magalhaes, helping Arsenal concede only five goals in those nine games, but Saliba's return gives Mikel Arteta the kind of selection question every manager wants. According to reports, Saliba is part of the travelling squad for the Champions League visit to Slavia Prague, a first step back rather than a guaranteed start. His rehabilitation was handled carefully, with specialist consultations and a programme designed to avoid surgery, and Arsenal have managed his comeback cautiously. With a packed festive schedule approaching and the Gunners unbeaten in Europe this season, getting their defensive cornerstone back in the fold could prove as important as any January signing. Whether Arteta eases him in from the bench or restores him straight away, Saliba's presence changes the look of a defence that has already been the league's best.