Mikel Arteta has confirmed that William Saliba, Jurrien Timber, and Kai Havertz are all available for Arsenal's Premier League trip to Leeds United on Saturday. The trio missed the midweek win over Kairat Almaty but have been declared fit for the visit to Elland Road.
Saliba and Timber, both key figures in the league's best defence, were rested on Wednesday due to minor niggles. Arteta explained: "They have played a lot of minutes, they've been carrying a few niggles, and it was a really good opportunity for us to offload them a little bit and refresh them." The Gunners conceded twice in their absence during the 3-2 victory.
Havertz made his first start since last February in that match, scoring and providing an assist. Arteta said the German came through unscathed: "He's ready. There was no reaction, I think it was super positive – you could see the impact he can have."
Arsenal's lead at the top of the table has been cut to four points after a draw and a defeat in their last two league games. With Manchester City and Aston Villa close behind, Arteta will hope the returning players can help steady the ship as the Gunners chase their first league title in over 20 years.
