Mikel Arteta has admitted that William Saliba’s injury setback has forced him to consider a new role for Declan Rice. Saliba missed Saturday’s disappointing 2-2 draw against Aston Villa after he pulled up during the closing stages of last week’s north London derby win over Tottenham.

Mikel Arteta says that Arsenal defender William Saliba is “evolving well” after sustaining a muscular injury last week but will miss his side’s Champions League game against Dinamo Zagreb on Wednesday.

Arsenal's defensive stalwart William Saliba is set for a spell on the sidelines after Sunday's medical checks revealed a hamstring issue, ruling him out for a crucial fortnight. The Frenchman missed the recent draw with Aston Villa, and in his absence, Jurrien Timber stepped up to fill the void at centre-half.