Arsenal's Premier League title race with Manchester City will take another step towards its conclusion later today with both sides in action. The Gunners welcome Brighton to the Emirates Stadium after City's tough trip to Everton.
By the end of the day, the destination of the title could become clearer, with Mikel Arteta's side knowing they could regain their status as league leaders with three points alongside a huge favour from Everton.
READ MORE: Arsenal line-ups vs Brighton with Jorginho decision, Tierney starts as Odegaard eyes record
Saliba, who hasn't played since the Sporting CP second leg Europa League tie, has left a gaping hole in defence, with Jakub Kiwior coming in to replace Rob Holding after his recent struggles. The Frenchman had been hopeful of making a return before the final day match against Wolves but The Athletic reported it wouldn't be possible.
Arteta played it cool, though, saying: "We have another session tomorrow before the Brighton game. We’re trying to get players back before that day. With William it’s for sure he’s not gonna be fit for this game and we’re doubting him for next game."
There is more optimism that Zinchenko will return before the end of the season and he was pictured in training recently. And ahead of Sunday's game, Arteta refused to rule him out for the rest of the games.
The Ukrainian full-back was taken off against Newcastle with what appeared to be a tactical move but it has since been revealed that it was worse than that. "No," was his response when asked if he could confirm the reports.
Depending on Zinchenko's fitness status, Mohamed Elneny and Takehiro Tomiyasu are also out until the end of the season, meaning Arteta could be working with three less players for a crucial stage of the run-in.
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