Mikel Arteta's defensive woes are set to deepen with the anticipated absence of star defender William Saliba for the next fortnight, forcing a reshuffle in his backline. This comes at a crucial juncture for the Gunners as they strive to keep pace with Premier League leaders Liverpool and secure a direct entry into the Champions League group stage.

Not for the first time, Arsenal felt the impact of being without William Saliba as they blew a two-goal lead at home to Aston Villa. The French defender missed Saturday’s 2-2 Premier League draw due to a hamstring injury and Mikel Arteta admitted after the game that he is “worried” given Arsenal’s lack of defensive options.

William Saliba's latest injury blow is yet another blow for Mikel Arteta who has already provided an update on the latest regarding Benjamin White

William Saliba missed Arsenal's dramatic draw with Aston Villa as Mikel Arteta sweated on his injury diagnosis with the defender due to be sidelined for several weeks

Takehiro Tomiyasu has managed only six minutes of action this season following a knee injury and his return date remains unclear. Ben White underwent surgery on a knee problem back in November and Arteta has hinted he could return towards the end of January.

Mikel Arteta says William Saliba was ruled out of Arsenal’s Premier League fixture against Aston Villa due to a muscular injury. Saliba, 23, was missing from the matchday squad for Saturday’s 2-2 draw,

William Saliba will be assessed today to determine the severity of his injury problem, with conflicting messages coming from Arsenal about the problem.Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty ImagesAhead of

Arsenal face a tough challenge in the Premier league when former manager, Unai Emery, and eighth place Aston Villa come to Emirates Stadium.

William Saliba is set to miss Arsenal’s next three matches through injury, according to a report from France.Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty ImagesFrench outlet L’Equipe claim that following further