Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has not given up hope that William Saliba could be involved before the end of the season.

The French centre-half is a huge absence for the Gunners in recent weeks.

Saliba's absence since an injury sustained in the Europa League against Sporting CP has coincided with the club losing its top spot in the Premier League.

Asked about Saliba's back injury by reporters, Arteta said: “We are not there yet, because we're always hopeful and players are pushing to play. If that's the case we'll announce it, but hopefully not.

“It's about the healing process pain-wise and the things he can do off the pitch. He's in a good place, but we have to build that capacity with the right load so that he's able to contribute to the team.

“He's feeling better every day but he's not been able to have any activity around the first-team, so we don't expect him to be with us [on Sunday]."