Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta is hoping to see William Saliba return to full fitness - sooner rather than later - ahead of the Gunners second testing away trip in a week.

The Premier League leaders travel east across the capital to take on David Moyes' West Ham on Sunday, following the defensive frailties on show against Liverpool - with Arteta hoping Saliba will recover from his back injury as quickly as possible. 

While Rob Holding proved a valiant stand-in during the frenetic 2-2 draw at Anfield on Easter Sunday, the backline did not look as composed as it has done this term without the calming presence of the athletic, fleet-footed young French centre-back. 

However, Saliba is still expected to be absent when the Gunners take on the Irons at the London Stadium on Sunday afternoon as the title race heats up.

Saliba has been a source of concern since he limped off during Arsenal's exit from the Europa League against Sporting Lisbon, thanks to an issue with his back that forced the talented centre-back to be substituted.

The centre-half missed the clash with Liverpool and it remains unclear when he will return, with Arsenal remaining tight-lipped about the extent of the injury. 

There is better news with the fact that Nketiah could return to the matchday squad at the weekend after he was spotted training with his teammates at the club's HQ and training ground London Colney earlier this week.