William Saliba blow is bad news for both Arsenal and Liverpool in Premier League title race
Below is a summary of the full article. Click here for the full version or go back to LFC Live.net.
Arsenal’s Premier League title ambitions - and Liverpool’s chances of retaining the trophy - have both been dealt a setback following William Saliba's injury blow, raising questions about his availability
The French defender has been central to Mikel Arteta’s plans, and his absence could have ripple effects across the title race, affecting both the Gunners and their closest rivals at the top of the table.
Saliba subsequently withdrew from international duty with the French national team after limping off the field.
Earlier this week, the French national team issued a statement regarding his withdrawal saying: "William Saliba, who started for Arsenal against Liverpool on Sunday, was forced off in the fifth minute.
After a discussion with Franck Le Gall, the French team doctor, Didier Deschamps confirmed the unavailability of William Saliba.
The Liverpool defender has had a challenging international year, having been substituted at half-time during March’s Nations League quarterfinal against Croatia and struggling in June’s 5-4 loss to Spain, where he earned a rare zero rating from the notoriously strict L’Equipe
With Saliba sidelined, Konate partnered Dayot Upamecano at the heart of the French defense on Friday, earning a far more positive 6/10 rating from L’Equipe, while Upamecano’s 7/10 was the highest among France’s back five