Why these two players withdraw from international duty

As the international break commences this week, two of Arsenal’s players have withdrawn from playing for their home countries.

The Gunners manager, Mikel Arteta, confirmed that Bukayo Saka will not join up with his England team-mates.

Saka was unable to make the matchday squad against Man City as he has not recovered from a hamstring injury.

The English winger will now be unavailable for the Three Lions’ friendly against Australia on 13 October and their European Championship qualifier against Italy four days later.

“No, he will not make it. He has not trained for a single session. He is not available to play football at the moment,” Arteta said.

A report via L’Equipe also revealed that Arsenal star William Saliba has withdrawn from the France national team.

Saliba, who played the entire 90 minutes during the Gunners’ game vs Man City, is struggling with a toe injury.