Arteta confirms Saka out for 'weeks', Konsa fit

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that winger Bukayo Saka will be out for several weeks due to a quad injury. Speaking ahead of Arsenal's upcoming match against Hull at the Emirates Stadium, Arteta outlined Saka's expected recovery timeline. The 19-year-old was forced off during the team's 2-2 draw against Bayern Munich last month and has been left out of the squad for forthcoming England matches.

Arteta revealed that Saka will gradually begin returning to full training, but his absence will persist for a considerable period.

On the positive side, defenders Ezri Konsa and William Saliba are both fit to face Hull. Konsa, who joined Arsenal in August, was substituted during a 2-1 win at Slavia Prague on Wednesday. Arteta emphasized that Konsa is ready to return to action in the upcoming fixture. As for Saliba, the former Aston Villa player was included in the France squad for the first time this season during a match against Slavia Prague, but he did not make any appearances.

Arteta stated that he is open to considering Saliba for the national team if coach Zinedine Zidane includes him in his plans.

With Saka's injury, Arteta highlighted his team's strength in retaining a core of five players who have represented the French national team. This includes Ben White, Myles Lewis-Skelly, Eberechi Eze, Declan Rice, and Konsa. Arteta expressed pride in these experienced English players, praising their enthusiasm and contribution to the club. He also noted the significance of their involvement in upcoming international fixtures, stating that the team is optimistic about their performance in these matches.