Arsenal explain why William Saliba was left out of squad for Aston Villa clash

Arsenal have revealed why William Saliba was omitted from their matchday squad against Aston Villa.

The centre-back has been a mainstay in the Gunners’ defence and missed just one of their Premier League matches all season.

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However, Saliba has not been named in the starting XI or on the bench for the visit of Villa, prompting Arsenal to explain the absence on social media.

Writing on X, formerly known as Twitter, the club wrote: “William Saliba misses out with a minor issue.”

Jurrien Timber has replaced Saliba in the Arsenal defence and will play alongside Gabriel.

Myles Lewis-Skelly has been rewarded for his fine form with another start whilst Kai Havertz leads the attack.

Arsenal will be hoping to capitalise on their north London derby win over Tottenham during the week with a win this weekend.

They remain behind Premier League leaders Liverpool, who claimed a late 2-0 win against Brentford earlier on Saturday.

Victory for the Gunners will close the gap from seven points to four, although Liverpool will still have a game in hand.

More to follow…