Saliba starts managed recovery programme - do Arsenal need back-up?

We want your thoughts after it was confirmed Arsenal defender William Saliba is set to miss "an extended period" with a long-standing back injury.

The 25-year-old had carried the problem into this summer's World Cup, having made 50 appearances for Arsenal last season.

"I've had some minor niggles for several months," Saliba said in the early stages of the tournament. "I've been gritting my teeth because there was the Champions League and the Premier League [to focus on].

"The World Cup also only comes around once every four years, so you've got to grit your teeth."

After returning to London and being seen by a specialist, it was decided the centre-back needed to start a managed recovery programme rather than have surgery on the issue.

How are you feeling about the injury update? Do Arsenal need dip into the transfer market for centre-back cover or can they cope comfortably in Saliba's absence?

Get in touch with your views here