Arsenal defender William Saliba could be set to miss out on a place in Didier Deschamps' World Cup final starting XI following reports that first choice pairing Ibrahima Konate and Raphael Varane have re-joined the group following illness.
After surpassing Poland, England and Morocco on their way to tomorrow's final against Argentina, reports had surfaced that the Arsenal centre-back may be in line for a starting role after RMC Sport reporter Fabrice Hawkins reported that Konate and Varane had become ill.
Hawkins said: "Two other players caught cold. Defenders Raphael Varane and Ibrahima Konate. Their situation is not alarming but the staff will closely monitor their state of health. Kingsley Coman is better."
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However, on the eve of the game, L'Equipe have claimed that the duo have re-joined their teammates after spending Friday in their rooms. It's expected that they will train on Saturday evening as normal ahead of Sunday's clash, and start in Deschamps' defence against Lionel Messi and co.
The news comes as a blow for Saliba as it now seems unlikely he'll add to the cameo appearance he made in the group stage defeat to Tunisia. The defender came on for Varane from the bench that day and hasn't featured since.
However, should Saliba not be required, he will return to north London without any injuries and ready to slot back into Mikel Arteta's defence on Boxing Day against West Ham United. The Frenchman has enjoyed a stellar season at club level and his formidable relationship with Gabriel has helped the Gunners to the top of the Premier League.
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