William Saliba has been sidelined since the start of the season, with Arsenal allowing him time to recover from a longstanding back problem. The club opted against surgery and instead gave the defender time to rest and regain his fitness.He last played competitive football at the World Cup and missed Arsenal’s pre-season preparations. However, the Gunners have coped with his absence, helped by the summer arrival of Ezri Konsa.The Englishman has impressed alongside Gabriel, with the pair developing a strong partnership in central defence. Nevertheless, Saliba remains a world-class talent, and his return will give Mikel Arteta an important selection decision.Saliba’s return presents Arteta with a dilemmaSaliba is back in training and nearing a return, although Arsenal will want to ensure he has recovered fully before bringing him back into action. Konsa has done enough to deserve his place, but Saliba is also too talented to leave on the bench.Arteta may therefore need to find a way to accommodate both defenders without disrupting the partnership that has served the team well. Rio Ferdinand believes Saliba’s quality means the manager will find room for him, and suggested Konsa could move to right back.William Saliba (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)Ferdinand discusses Arsenal’s defensive optionsSpeaking via Metro Sport, Ferdinand praised both players and explained why he expects Saliba to return to the starting team.‘I think William Saliba is one of those guys that you have to find room for in the team.‘He’s that good, he’s top.‘I said to my son yesterday, “watch Ezri Konsa”, because everything he does is efficient. That’s a great problem for Mikel Arteta to have.‘I wouldn’t be surprised if Konsa goes back to right-back once Saliba comes back. I wouldn’t be surprised because Konsa is top.’Saliba’s return will give Arteta more defensive options, but he must manage the defender’s recovery carefully. If the Frenchman is ready to play, Konsa’s versatility could allow both players to remain important to Arsenal._____________________________________________________________________________________________ADMIN COMMENTSo here are some simple rules which I must insist commenters follow….You agree not to give any personal abuse to other Arsenal fans. Everyone is allowed to hold their own opinions even if you disagree with them. It COSTS NOTHING TO BE POLITE TO OTHER ARSENAL FANS.CALLING ALL ARSENAL FANS! Anyone who would like to contribute an Article or Video opinion piece on JustArsenal, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us through this link…The post Rio Ferdinand expects Saliba to still get his Arsenal shirt back appeared first on Just Arsenal News.